Former Arsenal academy forward Billy Vigar has passed away after suffering a “significant brain injury” during a match last weekend. He was 21.

Vigar, who was playing for seventh-tier English side Chichester City, suffered the injury on September 20 in a game against Wingate and Finchley. The club announced the player had been taken to intensive care and put into an induced coma.

Vigar underwent surgery the following day. The club confirmed the player died on Thursday morning.

“It is with great sadness that Chichester City Football Club has to confirm the passing of Billy Vigar,” the statement said.

“Rest in peace, Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club.”

On Friday, the English Football Association announced it would review boundary walls around soccer fields in the country.

“Whilst the health and safety of participants and spectators at the National League System level is the responsibility of the clubs and their local authorities, we will now conduct an immediate review, working with leagues, clubs and relevant stakeholders across the game, that will focus on the safety of perimeter walls and boundaries around pitches in the National League System,” the FA wrote.

Vigar joined Arsenal’s academy system when he was 14. He made five appearances for the under-21 team before having loan spells at Derby County U21 and Eastbourne. He joined Hashtag United in the summer of 2024, where he spent one season before signing with Chichester last August.

Arsenal, in addition to other English clubs across the country, released a statement regarding the former academy prospect.

“Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away,” the club said. “All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time.”

Chichester also confirmed that its upcoming game against Lewes FC has been postponed.

The Super League is officially dead.

On April 18, the European Super League was announced with 12 founding football teams. The 12 teams were top teams from across three different football leagues in Europe. As of Wednesday, the project is no longer happening. The Super League consisted of founding members Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, Atlético, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Juventus, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The European Super League announcement was met with intense fan backlash and legislative pressure. The UEFA held a press conference condemning the European Super League and threatened to ban players from the participating teams from playing in this year’s European Championship and next year’s World Cup.

Two days after its initial creation, six founding clubs withdrew from the proposed league. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham withdrew from the project due to pressure. It was a death blow to the proposed project.

Following the departures of the English clubs, the European Super League announced that it was suspending the project. “Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project, always giving in mind our goals of offering the fans the best experience possible while enhancing solidarity payments for the entire football community,” the statement read.

On Wednesday, four more clubs withdrew from the project. Atlético, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus.

Atlético released a statement announcing its official departure from the project. “Atlético de Madrid’s Board of Directors, which met on Wednesday morning, has decided to formally communicate to the Super League and the rest of the founding clubs its decision not to finally formalize its adhesion to the project,” the statement read.

Inter Milan released an official statement confirming their departure. “FC Internazionale Milano confirms that the Club is no longer part of the Super League project,” the statement said.

AC Milan then released a statement announcing its withdrawal from the project. The Italian club said, “The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport”.

Juventus was the next club that left. “While Juventus remains convinced of the soundness of the project’s sport, commercial and legal premises, it believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived,” the club said. “Juventus remains committed to pursuing the creation of long-term value for the Company and the entire football industry.”

As of now, only FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have not officially left the league.

As the January transfer window deadline approaches, several deals are completed or underway. 

Premier League champions Liverpool signed defender Ben Davies from Preston North End. Davies will be a backup option for Liverpool’s defense after several of the club’s first team defenders are all sidelined with injuries. 

In addition to Davies, Liverpool are reportedly in talks to sign another defender on loan with option to buy, Ozan Kabak, from Bundesliga club Schalke. The Turkish defender has been reportedly in the club’s consideration for a long time. The Reds were also linked with Marseille defender Duje Caleta Car, but the move reportedly stalled. 

Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli is rumored to be in talks with Ligue 1 club PSG to seal a move before the deadline. PSG head coach and Tottenham former head coach Mauricio Pochettino was reportedly pushing for the move to happen. However, there are reports that claim that the move is off and that Alli will stay at Tottenham for the rest of the season.

Arsenal recently signed Real Madrid midfielder Martin Odegaard on loan after the young midfielder did not get enough playing time at Real Madrid. Also, while not identifying any other specific transfer targets, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta claimed that he is optimistic of new arrivals before the deadline.  

The Gunners are linked with Southamption’s Ryan Bertrand, Marseille’s Jordan Amavi and Crystal Palace’s Patrick Van Aanholt. 

La Liga club Sevilla signed midfielder Alejandro Papu Gomez from Serie A club Atalanta. Gomez left the club after falling out with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Meanwhile, Atalanta signed midfielder Viktor Kovalenko from Shakhtar Donetsk. 

Juventus defender Daniele Rugani completed a loan move to Serie A club Cagliari. Rugani recently played in Ligue 1 club Rennes on loan from Juventus. Rugani struggled to get playing time at the French club. 

Bayern Munich’s promising star Joshua Zirkzee completed a loan move to Serie A club Parma. 

The January transfer window recently opened and several exciting transfers are completed or in the process of completion.

Premier League club Manchester United is set to sign Ivorian wonderkid Amad Diallo from the Serie A club Atalanta B.C. The player uploaded a photo on his Instagram showing himself boarding a private jet. Concerning the transfer, Manchester United head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters, “Amad had the paperwork, I can’t see any obstacles and hopefully within not too long he’ll be with us. I think he has shown his qualities a few times but has to learn to play in England, which is a different way of playing football. We will give him time to develop and express himself.”

Bundesliga club RB Leipzig recently signed Dominik Szoboszlai from the Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg for €25 million. The young talent was reportedly chased by Arsenal but ended up signing for Leipzig. 

Bayern Munich star David Alaba is reportedly in talks for a move to Real Madrid. There are several clubs including FC Barcelona and Chelsea were interested in signing the Austrian defender, but he is clearly interested in a move to the La Liga giants. 

Inter Milan outcast Christian Eriksen is expected to leave the club after a disappointing season. The Danish midfielder is not playing regularly under head coach Antonio Conte. Inter Milan CEO Giuseppe Marotta told Sky Sports that the player is on the transfer list and that “there is no punishment, it’s just a situation that has developed and it’s only fair to give him the chance to go where he can play more regularly.” Arsenal is one of the clubs interested in signing the player. 

Arsenal is reportedly interested in signing midfielder Houssem Aouar from Ligue 1 club Olympique Lyonnais. Head coach Mikel Arteta is looking for new players to help strengthen the squad. 

Arsenal legend Liam Brady attacked at current Arsenal player Mesut Ozil. Ozil has been left out of the current squad by head coach Mikel Arteta since March.

Talking on the Key and Greys podcast, Brady claimed, “I don’t blame Arteta over Ozil. He gave Ozil plenty of chances and he performed for a couple of months. Ozil just reverted back to type.”

Brady also said that “he’s not a good guy in the dressing room; he’s not a good guy on the pitch. I’ve no problem with Mikel bombing him.” 

Ozil was clearly not in Arteta’s plans when he arrived. Arteta depended more on players like Pierre Emerick Aubameyang. 

Arteta even admitted that the Ozil situation is painful and even told BeIn Sports ““I’m hurt because I don’t like any player in my squad not to have the possibility to participate, or to compete, for me it is really sad because I don’t think anybody deserves that.But at the end of the day I’m sitting here to make decisions, to make the decisions that, in my opinion, are the best for the football club. And this is what I have to do”

When asked if Ozil can participate in the future, Arteta said “Well everybody can and I think since I arrived here you see where some players have started and where they are right now, their careers are completely changed and they have earned that right. We gave them the opportunities and they took them.”

Arteta also claimed that he’s trying “to be as clear as possible with him and with all the media and fans”.

Likewise, former Arsenal head coach Unai Emery previously criticized Ozil and claimed that the player needs to “be self‑critical too, analyse his attitude and commitment.”

After his lack of playing time, Ozil is clearly looking for a move away from the club. Reports claim that the German midfielder is linked to move to the Turkish club Fenerbahce. 

In the midst of the Christmas festivities, the Premier League boxing day fixtures were also happening. 

Arsenal got its first win in a long time after defeating Chelsea 3-1. In the first half, the Gunners were awarded a penalty scored by Alexandre Lacazette. Afterward, Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka scored a brilliant free-kick to double the score for his side. In the second half, young Arsenal star Bukayo Saka scored a stunning goal. In the last minutes of the game, Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham scored his side’s only goal. The Blues were awarded a penalty, but the penalty was shot by Jorginho and saved by Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Despite the new signings, Chelsea has not drastically improved from last season. 

Leicester City drew with Manchester United 2-2. In the first half, United star Marcus Rashford scored the first goal. Afterward, Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes scored his side’s first goal. In the second half, United’s Bruno Fernandes scored his side’s second goal. Shortly after, Unite’s Axel Tuanzebe scored an own goal. The result was fair to both sides.

Manchester City defeated Newcastle United, 2-0. In the first half, City’s Ilkay Gundogan scored the first goal. In the second half, City’s new signing Ferran Torres scored the second goal. Manchester City played a good game, unlike previous ones.

Everton defeated Sheffield United, 1-0 after a late goal from Gylfi Sigurosson. The Toffees made an unexpected start to the season and are now third in the Premier League. 

Aston Villa defeated Crystal Palace 3-0. In the first half, Villa’s Bertrand Traore scored an early goal. Before half time, Villa’s Tyrone Mings was sent off after a second yellow card. In the second half, Villa’s Kortney Hause and Anwar El Ghazi each scored. The game looked quite easy for Aston Villa against a struggling Crystal Palace. 

The Fulham and Southampton game ended in a goalless draw. 

Manchester City defeated Arsenal 4-1 in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals to pile more pressure on the struggling Gunners.

Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus scored an early goal assisted by Oleksandr Zinchenko. Before the end of the first half, Arsenal Alexandre Lacazette scored a goal assisted by Gabriel Martinelli to equalize the score before half time.

In the second half, Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez scored his side’s second goal. Afterward, City’s Phil Foden scored the third goal assisted by Fernandinho. City defender Aymeric Laporte scored the fourth goal assisted by Foden.

After this game, Arsenal’s season went from bad to worse. The Gunners are currently 15th in the Premier League and have lost three of their four last games. In fact, this past Saturday, Arsenal lost against Everton, 2-1.

Head coach and former Arsenal player Mikel Arteta admitted his disappointment while talking to Sky Sports. “It’s a hard one to take considering how the game went,” Arteta said. “This level of opponent, when you give the goals away it makes the game impossible. A lot of strange things are happening in every game and that makes things really difficult.”

Arteta also claimed that “we have to turn it around, there is no question. If we don’t we’re in big trouble. This is the moment that’s going to decide our season.”

The Spanish head coach strongly believes in his players and said that he has “fighters” in the team who are capable of saving Arsenal’s season.

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola commented on his ex-assistant, “What I can say in our position as a manager we’ll be judged by the results. I was with him a long period, the most successful period our club had. Sometimes in our job we need time. It’s time to be patient. He’s an outstanding manager, incredible work ethic and puts the club in front of any decisions he has to make”. 

Arsenal is clearly in a dreadful situation and could potentially face relegation from the league if the team does not start winning. The Gunners have a difficult upcoming fixture against Chelsea on Dec. 26 at The Emirates.

Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Raul Jimenez suffered a serious head injury during Wolves’ win against Arsenal. 

In the first half of the game, Jimenez clashed with Arsenal defender David Luiz and both players were hurt. Medics hurried to the field to check on both players and Jimenez was carried off of the field on a stretcher as his injury looked very serious. Luiz was able to continue but was later subbed off in the second half. 

After the game, Wolves’ coach Nuno Espirito Santo said “he speaks, he’s aware. We have to have a proper assessment. He’s in good hands.” Wolves captain Conor Coady also commented on the incident. “It was a tough thing that happened,” he said. “He is with the right people and that’s the most important thing but we just hope and pray that everything is ok because he is the one we are thinking about right now.”

Jimenez was immediately taken to the hospital where the player underwent tests and scans to assess his head injury. After undergoing tests, Jimenez underwent a successful fractured-skull operation.

Wolves released a statement following Jimenez’s surgery: “Raul is comfortable following an operation last night, which he underwent in a London hospital. He has since seen his partner Daniela and is now resting. He will remain under observation for a few days while he begins his recovery.”

Despite Jimenez’s injury, Wolves defeated Arsenal, 2-1. Wolves’ Pedro Neto scored a goal shortly followed by an equalizer from Arsenal’s Gabriel. Before the end of the first half, Wolves’ Daniel Podence scored the winning goal. 

Wolves are currently sixth in the Premier League, while Arsenal went down to fourteenth after this defeat. Wolves will face Liverpool at Anfield Stadium on 12/6, while Arsenal will face rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. 

Arsenal players David Luiz and Dani Ceballos reportedly had a fight during training. 

Some journalists reported that Ceballos and Luiz’s fight got physical as Luiz hit Ceballos on the nose. After these details were released, Ceballos branded them as “fake” on his official Twitter account. 

When Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was asked about the fight, he said, “I have got a really bad vision from far, that is why we train behind closed doors. Training is very competitive and issues happen a lot of times. Those things get resolved immediately within the team and there is not much to say.”

Ceballos has recently been involved in another argument with an Arsenal teammate. He and Eddie Nketiah were caught arguing before the Arsenal Premier League fixture against Fulham. 

Arsenal is also currently facing other issues with players. New signing Willian traveled during the international break to Dubai, reportedly breaking England’s lockdown rules. Willian was pictured in Dubai with chef Nusret at the famous Nusr-Et steakhouse.

In a press conference, Arteta claimed that this conflict with Willian has been dealt with and both of them had a conversation about it. 

In addition, Arsenal is dealing with a COVID problem as players Mohamed El Neny and Sead Kolasinac both tested positive for the virus while with their national teams. Both players are expected to miss the Arsenal fixture against Leeds United and possibly other ones as well. 

Arsenal forward Pierre Emerick Aubameyang was on international duty with the Gabon national team and had to spend the night on the airport floor along with his Gabon teammates as they were delayed by immigration officers. Aubameyang himself shared photos of the incident on social media. 

The Gunners suffered a defeat in their last Premier League game against Aston Villa. The club is currently eleventh on the Premier League table.

Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hit back at Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos after Kroos criticized his goal celebration. 

During the Einfach mal Luppen podcast, Kroos discussed preplanned goal celebrations and claimed, “I find it very silly. Even worse is if there are any objects hidden in their socks. Aubameyang once celebrated and took out a mask. That’s where it ends with me. I don’t think that’s a good role model, either. What nonsense.”

Aubameyang previously celebrated his goals by wearing a superhero mask both at his current club Arsenal and former club Borussia Dortmund. During Arsenal’s game against Rennes, he scored and celebrated by wearing a Black Panther mask. 

After Kroos’ criticism, Aubameyang responded with a Twitter post saying, “By the way, does this @ToniKroos have kids? Just to remember I did it for my son few times and I will do it again,” he posted on Twitter, quoting the below tweet. I wish you have kids one day and make them happy like this junior school pupils talk and don’t forget #maskon #staysafe”

Current Arsenal and former Germany international player Mesut Ozil also weighed in on the issue and posted the Aubameyang mask celebration on Twitter, saying, “The best goal celebration.” 

Kroos responded to Aubameyang’s post on Twitter and wrote, “THIS Toni Kroos has 3 kids.” 

Many players including Aubameyang have celebrated their goals with choreographed celebrations. Barcelona’s Antoine Griezmann previously celebrated his goals with Drake’s ‘Hotline Bling’ dance and Fortnite’s Take the L celebration. 

In addition, Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland celebrated several of his goals with a Zen celebration. Juventus’ Paulo Dybala does a famous ‘Dybalamask’ celebration whenever he scores. Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry celebrated many of his goals with a famous cooking celebration. Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo has a famous celebration which he spins in the air and screams “Siiii.” 

The Premier League saw some great action as Man City defeated Sheffield United 1-0, Bournemouth defeated Brighton 3-1, and both Newcastle and Everton, as well as Chelsea and Arsenal, tied 2-2.

Chelsea vs. Arsenal – Tied 2-2

Coming into the match, a lot of focus was on the two managers. Chelsea’s Frank Lampard has started to get heat for a difficult team run, while Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta has been accused of doing little to improve Arsenal’s fortunes since taking over.

With the match tied at one a piece, Chelsea took the lead on a great goal by Cesar Azpilicueta, but an Arsenal score by Hector Bellerin brought the game back to even.

The draw moves Arsenal into 10th, while Chelsea goes six points clear of Manchester United who sits fifth.

SLIDESHOW: 50 GREAT SPORTS FIGURES WHO DIED IN 2019

Bournemouth vs. Brighton – Bournemouth 3-1

Bournemouth went back to their winning ways after losing five of their last six matches.

Goals by Harry Wilson, Pascal Gross and Callum Wilson put Bournemouth back on the map and in good spirits. A late push by Brighton wasn’t enough to give them a chance in this match, as Bournemouth seemed dominant and determined to get out of their losing streak.

Bournemouth still sits in the bottom three as they look to keep this winning spirit alive.

Newcastle vs. Everton – Tied 2-2

Newcastle showed serious determination with a comeback to stop what looked like an easy 2-0 win for Everton.

After falling 2-0, Florian Lejeune came out as Newcastle’s savior scoring the two pivotal goals to secure the tie. Both came in stoppage time, the first coming as acrobatic attempt after an Everton error and the second a volley that found it’s way over the line, securing a huge comeback for Newcastle.

Real Madrid and manager Zinedine Zidane had a promising start of the summer by signing five players ranging from Eden Hazard, formerly of Chelsea, Luka Jovic from Benfica, 18-year-old Brazilian Rodrygo, Olympique Lyon fullback Ferland Mendy and Porto’s Eder Militao. Recently, Zidane’s squad has been suffering. After it was announced Welsh star Gareth Bale was allowed to leave for free after not agreeing with Zidane, Real Madrid played Arsenal in a friendly and Marco Asensio tore his ACL.

According to BBC, Real Madrid released a statement regarding Asensio’s status, saying, “he has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and the external meniscus of his left knee. The player will be surgically operated in the next few days.”

Asensio suffered the injury later after scoring in the 59th minute to bring the game back to 2-2 after Arsenal’s Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored in the first half and gave them the lead. Real Madrid later won the game in penalties.

30 SPORTS FIGURES WHO DIED IN 2018 – TRIBUTE SLIDESHOW

According to reports in Spain, they explain that Asensio could be out for the team for almost nine months. He will miss most of the 2019-2020 campaign, and may not be involved at the Euro 2020 championships with his international team Spain.

Real Madrid has loaned out Dani Ceballos to Arsenal for a season-long loan. After Real Madrid lost Marco Asensio to an ACL injury, and Gareth Bale is reported to be allowed to leave, Ceballos joins the list of Madrid players that won’t play for the Spanish side this season. For Arsenal, Ceballos will be a contributing factor for the team and their Premier League campaign for this upcoming season.

Arsenal will have to pay his wages during his loan, as Madrid will be happy with, along with their player developing in one of the top leagues in European competition. The Spanish player will join an Arsenal midfield alongside Lucas Torreira, Granit Xhaka and Mesut Ozil. Juventus signed former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsay this summer, and Ceballos looks like Ramsay’s short-term replacement.

Arsenal finished fifth last season with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang tying Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane for the Premier League golden boot. They won 21 games and lost 10 and scored the league’s third-most goals with 73.

Ceballos had a breakout display in the summer’s U21 UEFA competition with Spain, where he helped the team win the title, and was named in the team of the tournament.

SPORTS FIGURES WHO DIED IN 2019 – IN MEMORIAM SLIDESHOW 

Ceballos’ arrival to the Emirates stadium will be a big boost for Unai Emery and his squad. The team needed more competition in the attacking midfield, and Real Madrid will enjoy Ceballos training in a top environment. Emery also signed Brazilian William Saliba, an 18-year-old center back earlier on Thursday. He will be loaned back out however to his former team for the remainder of the season, Ligue 1’s Saint-Etienne. According to Metro, Emery is not completely satisfied with his squad right now, and is hunting another defender and winger. Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha is an option out wide for the Gunners that could join the team, while Scottish full-back Kieran Tierney has been linked to the team as well.

Ceballos has made 13 starts for Real Madrid and struggled to breakthrough into the first team with Luka Modric, Casemiro and Toni Kroos holding down spots in the starting lineup.

Arsenal captain Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel to the United States for preseason training with his team, according to multiple reports. Koscielny has clear doubt about his future with the club as he is nearing his final year of his contract with the squad, yet to sign a new deal.

Arsenal released a statement regarding Koscielny’s actions, saying, “We are very disappointed by Laurent’s actions, which are against our clear instructions. We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time,” the clubs told ESPN.

Koscielny is nearing his last few years as a professional at age 33, and is reported to have interest from French side Bordeaux, according to BBC, they are offering him a three-year deal.

This is a depleted Arsenal squad that lacks significant leadership and playmaking. Arsenal finished fifth in the Premier League last season, just one spot above Manchester United who outdid Arsenal in terms of lackluster performances. Shkodran Mustafi, a center-half for Arsenal, is reported to be on the move as well as Koscielny. With both of their starting center backs on reported moves, Unai Emery and the Arsenal board seem to be lacking first-team defenders.

SLIDESHOW: 30 BEST SPORTS INSTAGRAMS

Koscielny has battled a multitude of injuries, sidelining him all season but for 13 starts he had in the Premier league in 2018. According to Bleacher Report, Emery has been given a limited budget for this upcoming season for summer transfers, and two possible new center backs seems to be added to the shopping list. Arsenal placed a bid for Celtic’s Kieran Tierney, but according to Goal’s Chris Burton, Celtic manager Neil Lennon criticized Emery and the board of directors for a bid that was drastically too low.

Whatever Emery and the board decides to do with their defense and lack of first team players, it remains to be seen.

Koscielny has started 353 times for Arsenal, winning the FA Cup two times and playing for the squad for almost a decade.

Alexis Sanchez’s future with Arsenal remains uncertain, although another Premier League club has made a bid for the Chilean forward.

Alexis Sanchez transfer news

Manchester City have announced that they would be willing to include midfielder Raheem Sterling in a deal for 28-year-old Sanchez. According to The Sun and several other publications, City are also offering cash to acquire the Chilean. The Sun also claims Sanchez has demanded to leave his international training camp with Chile in order to “sort out other commitments.”

Sanchez’s contract at Anfield expires in June 2018, and the Chilean has refused to sign an extension. He has reportedly expressed a desire to leave the Gunners over discontent with negotiations and management of the club.

Sterling, 22, joined City from Liverpool in 2015 for a record transfer fee of £49 million ($63 million). The Jamaican-born England winger is reportedly open to returning to London. He started his career playing for QPR’s youth team before moving to Anfield.

City is among the teams Sanchez has expressed interest in due to the possibility of re-teaming with manager Pep Guardiola, whose last year as manager of Barcelona was Sanchez’s first year playing for the Catalan club (2011-2012). The Chilean joined Barcelona from Italian team Udinese in 2011.

Manchester City were initially prepared to offer around £50 million ($65 million) for Sanchez, although Arsène Wenger has insisted that he would not be sold. It is believed that City’s latest offer includes Sterling and around £20 million ($26 million). Though no official deal has been made, City and Arsenal have held several talks in recent days.

Sanchez is due to play for Chile against Paraguay in a 2018 Russia World Cup qualifier on Thursday after returning from injury in Arsenal’s 4-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday. The Chilean was pulled in the 62nd minute of the game.

The Gunners are also reportedly more interested in Argentine forward Sergio Aguero than Sterling, although sources claim Aguero is not seeking a transfer.

MONACO – MARCH 15: Raheem Sterling of Manchester City is tracked by Fabinho of Monaco during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between AS Monaco and Manchester City FC at Stade Louis II on March 15, 2017 in Monaco, Monaco. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has expressed an interest in purchasing English soccer club Arsenal, and added that his first move should he succeed in this venture would be to fire the team’s longtime manager Arsene Wenger. 

Arsenal acquisition news

Dangote — who is chairman and CEO of multinational industrial conglomerate Dangote Group, which has interest in commodities — is the richest man in Africa according to Forbes, with a net worth of $12.5 billion. The 60-year-old admitted in an interview that he has been a fan of Arsenal since the mid-1980s. Dangote also added that he will attempt to make an offer for the club after the construction of an $11 billion oil refinery in Nigeria’s capital Lagos is completed toward the end of this decade.

“The first thing I would change is the coach,” Dangote said. “He has done a good job, but someone else should also try his luck.”

Wenger has been Arsenal’s manager since 1996, and is European soccer’s longest-serving coach. Since arriving at Anfield 21 years ago, the 67-year-old Frenchman has led Gunners to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cup trophies. In May, Wenger signed a two-year extension after months of speculation as to whether he would remain with Arsenal following the team’s poor performance in several major tournaments. Although Arsenal won the Emirates FA Cup this year, the club failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 20 years and finished fifth in the Premier League. Fans even angrily took to the streets in London to call for Wenger’s firing.

Arsenal’s majority shareholder is American billionaire Stan Kroenke, who controls nearly 67 percent of the franchise and also owns the National Football League’s Los Angeles Rams.

Nevertheless, Dangote said he is confident he can convince Kroenke and Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov — who owns 30 percent of Arsenal — to sell.

“If they get the right offer, I’m sure they would walk away,” said Dangote. “Someone will give them an offer that will make them seriously consider walking away. And when we finish the refinery, I think we will be in a position to do that.”

“It’s a great team, well-run. It could be run better, so I will be there,” he said. “I will wait. Even if things change I will take it.”

In May, Usmanov made a $1.3 billion (£1 billion) bid to buy out Kroenke. The approach valued the club at approximately $2 billion.

According to Forbes, Arsenal is worth $1.9 billion (£1.5 billion).

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 20: Aliko Dangote speaks on stage at the Africa-America Institute’s 2016 Annual Awards Gala at Cipriani 25 Broadway on September 20, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Africa-America Institute)

Arsenal’s academy will have a new manager in a year: team captain Per Mertesacker. 

Per Mertesacker Retiring in 2018

The 32-year-old German defender announced he will retire after the 2017-2018 season in order to lead the club’s academy. Mertesacker, who joined the Gunners from Werder Bremen in August 2011, only played two games last season due to injuries. He performed greatly in the FA Cup Final victory over Chelsea in late May despite that being his first start of the season.

“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for me and I am delighted I will be able to stay part of the Arsenal family,” said Mertesacker. “This season I will remain fully focused on my job with the team and am looking forward to a successful last season on the pitch. After that, I look forward to the exciting challenge of helping produce young players good enough to play for the Arsenal first team.”

Arsenal have stated that he will begin working with the academy this season in order to prepare for his new position.

“Per is an exceptional character who is a great example for young players,” manager Arsene Wenger said. “He is a deep thinker about the game and committed to helping players fulfill their potential.”

Mertesacker made more than 200 appearances under Wenger’s leadership.

This week, Arsenal signed Lyon’s 14-year veteran Alexandre Lacazette on a record deal, and many of the Gunners seem excited about the prospect of playing alongside the French forward. “I’m really looking forward to it,” said Mesut Ozil. “He is a very good striker who has scored many goals in Ligue 1, not just this season but in previous seasons too. We are really happy to have such a class striker here with us.”

Ozil continued: “I hope he will be able to take us further with his goals. I am sure he is happy to be here and to be able to play with us, and we are pleased to be able to assist him and help him to score as many goals as possible.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 30: Per Mertesacker of Arsenal celebrates victory after the FA Cup Final between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on May 30, 2015 in London, England. Arsenal beat Aston Villa 4-0. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images)

Arsenal announced on Wednesday that they have signed Lyon forward Alexandre Lacazette to a record-breaking deal.

Alexandre Lacazette Had Been With Lyon Since 2003

According to British publication Metro, the 26-year-old Frenchman — who has spent the last 14 years in Lyon — has agreed to a five-year contract at Emirates Stadium worth approximately £52million ($67 million) to mark the Gunners’ most expensive signing in history.

The Frenchman is the Gunners’ second signing this summer. Arsenal brought in 24-year-old Bosnian defender Sead Kolasinac on a free transfer from German club Schalke in early June.

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 16: Alexandre Lacazette of Olympique Lyonnais in action during the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 second leg match between AS Roma and Olympique Lyonnais at Stadio Olimpico on March 16, 2017 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images )

Alexis Sanchez has decided whether he will remain with Arsenal next season, although he added he will not reveal which team he will be playing for until after the Confederations Cup.

Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez Says He Is Focused On Confederations Cup Final vs Germany

The 28-year-old Chilean forward’s contract with the Gunners expires in the summer of 2018, and he has been targeted by several European teams in the last few months. Manchester City have emerged as one of the frontrunners to sign Sanchez, and Pep Guardiola’s club is hoping he will complete a £50 million ($65 million) transfer from Emirates Stadium.

Guardiola brought Sánchez from Italian club Udinese to Barcelona in the summer of 2011 and worked with him there for one season. The Chilean then joined Arsenal in 2014 on a £31.7 million ($41 million) transfer fee.

However, Sanchez — who is also reportedly being pursued by Bayern Munich — told Sky Sports in an interview this week that all of his attention is currently focused on winning the FIFA Confederations Cup. Chile is facing Germany in the tournament final in St. Petersburg, Russia on Sunday.

When asked whether he had made up his mind about which team he would call home next season, Sanchez laughed and said, “Yes, it’s clear but I can’t tell you.”

The forward then said he was focused on international play when asked whether there was a strong possibility he could join his international teammate, Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, at Manchester City later this year.

“Good question,” Sanchez told Sky Sports. “Right now I’m focused on the Confederations Cup. When this is finished I will see if I stay or if I go. I don’t know.”

Chile defeated Portugal 3-0 on penalties following a 0-0 tie in Wednesday’s Confederations Cup semifinal to reach the title game of the tournament, which pits together the champions from each of the six geographic regions plus the host nation and the reigning FIFA World Cup winner.

Arsenal are desperate to keep Sanchez, who has thus far not signed a new contract reportedly worth more than £250,000 ($325,000) per week. BeIN SPORTS reported early Friday that the team’s longtime manager, Frenchman Arsene Wenger, refuses to let Sanchez and German midfielder Mesut Ozil leave. 

Sanchez was Arsenal’s top scorer last season with 30 goals in 51 appearances for the team. Nevertheless, he was unable to help the Gunners secure a top-four Premier League finish or qualification for the Champions League.

Sanchez also helped Chile win consecutive Copa America titles in 2015 and 2016. Chile defeated Argentina on penalty kicks in both finals.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 16: Alexis Sanchez of Arsenal celebrates scoring his sides second goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Sunderland at Emirates Stadium on May 16, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Arsene Wenger announced Friday that his future as manager of Arsenal will not be determined until after the FA Cup Final, which will be held at the end of May.

Arsene Wenger: Future with Arsenal to be determined after FA Cup Final

The Evening Standard’s James Olley was among the first to report the news:

Wenger’s contract expires at the end of Arsenal’s season, which finishes May 27 when the Gunners face Premier League winners Chelsea in the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.

The 67-year-old Frenchman has been with the London-based club since 1996, and has repeatedly declined to discuss a possible contract extension (or lack thereof) with Arsenal despite angry protests from many fans for Wenger to resign.

ESPN’s Alex Shaw and The New York Times’  Rory Smith also expressed how tired they are of Wenger’s refusal to reveal how much longer he will be in charge at Emirates Stadium:

Wenger said whether or not he keeps his position will be decided in a board meeting.

“There are many aspects to be discussed at a board meeting. One is what happens with the manager,” he said. “Of course I will be there. At the moment we should focus on the short term and what is going on on Sunday and in the cup final.”

Should Arsenal defeat Chelsea in the FA Cup Final, that would be the Gunners’ first title this season.

Arsenal supporters have taken all sorts of extreme measures to voice their desire to see the French manager fired. During Saturday’s Premier League victory at Stoke City, a plane flew over the stadium while carrying a banner with the words “Wenger — out means out!” One of the Gunners’ most embarrassing defeats this campaign was a 10-2 aggregate loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

The Gunners are currently fifth in the Premier League with 72 points, just one point behind fourth-place Liverpool and three away from third-place Manchester City. Chelsea won the league with 90 points, while Tottenham finished second with 83.

Arsenal, which last beat Sunderland 2-0 at home on Tuesday, will host seventh-place Everton (61 points) on Sunday for their final Premier League game.

In order to finish in the top four in Champions League qualifying, the Gunners must beat Everton and hope Liverpool lose points by falling to Middlesbrough at home this Sunday — or that Manchester City lose severely to Watford.

“We have to do our job, we are professionals and want to win,” said Wenger. “We are on a good run and all we can do is win our game on Sunday. After that what happens to me is less important.

“I am here to serve the club and the best way to do that is by winning the next game.”

Watford recently announced that their own manager, Walter Mazzarri, will be leaving at the end of this season following a terrible run. The team is 16th in the Premier League with 40 points, and has lost its last five games, the last one being Monday’s 4-3 defeat against Chelsea that gave the Blues their Premier League trophy.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Arsene Wenger, Manager of Arsenal celebrates his team’s first goal in the stand during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Hull City at Emirates Stadium on February 11, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)