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Ghanaian players have definitely not been left out of the Christmas festivities.

As Christians all over the world celebrate the holy day, Ghanaian footballers have taken to social media to send well-wishes and messages of love.

"May our hearts and homes be filled with all the joys & blessings of the festive season. Have a wonderful Christmas!" Black Stars and Vitoria Guimaraes left-back Gideon Mensah posted.

Amiens centre-back Nicholas Opoku, like Gyan and Boateng, kept it simple with his post which reads "Merry Christmas and season's greetings to all."

While France-born Strasbourg player Alexander Djiku decided to give away a signed Ghana jersey in the Christmas spirit following his international debut in October. Besiktas midfielder Bernard Mensah wrote "Merry Christmas to you all. +3 points".

Below are additional posts from Ghanaian footballers:

Atalanta are set to add Shakhtar Donetsk star Viktor Kovalenko to their squad, with the midfielder having already signed a pre-contract.

Sources have confirmed to Goal that Kovalenko, whose contract with the Ukrainian side expires in June 2021, has come to terms with the Serie A side. 

Kovalenko is set to join Atalanta at the conclusion of the current season, though it is possible that Gian Piero Gasperini's side will attempt to bring the midfielder in January.

The signing of Kovalenko is a coup for Atalanta, who have secured the Ukraine international despite interest from a host of other Italian clubs.

The 24-year-old came up through Shakhtar's youth ranks and has established himself as a key member of the squad, helping Shakhtar to four Ukrainian championships, four Ukrainian cups and two Ukrainian Super Cups during his time with the club.

Kovalenko made his debut for Ukraine's senior national team in 2016, taking part in that year's European Championships, and has gone on to earn 30 caps for his country.

Kovalenko, who can play multiple positions across midfield, has played eight league matches and three Champions League games this season, scoring four goals.

The midfielder will be the second recent addition for Atalanta, who also recently signed Danish international right-back Joakim Maehle from Genk.

Atalanta paid the Belgian outfit €10 million (£9m/$12m) for the 23-year-old, who will join the Italian club next month. 

Those signings could potentially offset the departure of Alejandro "Papu" Gomez, who appears to be on his way out of the club after a bust-up with Gasperini.

Gomez has been dropped from the squad for two straight matches, stemming from his refusal to change positions in a Champions League match earlier this month.

The departure of Gomez would be a blow for Atalanta, who have come to rely on the 32-year-old for creativity in recent seasons. 

Gomez has led the league in assists twice in recent seasons, but has now requested a move to either AC Milan or Inter. 

The two Milan sides currently sit first and second in the Serie A table, with Atalanta in seventh place, 12 points behind table-topping AC Milan with one game in hand over the Rossoneri. 

Nicholas Kipkirui was missing from Gor Mahia's 18-man squad that left the country for Algeria to play CR Belouizdad in the second preliminary round of the Caf Champions League.

It raised eyebrows considering the fact he played a crucial role in helping K'Ogalo to advance. Specifically, he scored the goal that took K'Ogalo to the next round of the competition at the expense of APR Rwanda.

"Kipkirui is in a good condition and he has not been left out because of injury," a source close to the club told Goal on Friday.

"It is just that the winger requested to attend to some family issues and he was permitted. There is nothing serious that has put him out of the team. He will definitely be available for the second leg to be played in Nairobi."

Captain Kenneth Muguna is among the players who missed the trip owing to a rib injury.

Experienced midfielder Bernard Ondiek is also out with an injury, the same as John Ochieng'.

18-players left the country on Thursday night for North Africa.

Ernest Wendo, who has been looking a rejuvenated midfield maestro, is among the travelling stars that also includes Jules Ulimwengu. The Rwandan was consecutively on target against Ulinzi Stars and Tusker in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League and would hope he would find the back of the net on the continental stage.

The team en route to Algeria comprises mostly local players as Ulimwengu and Tito Okello are the only foreigners available.

With the absence of Muguna, assistant captain Philemon Otieno is expected to lead the team to get good results although they have had tough times whenever they face Northern African sides.

The match was rescheduled for December 26 after Gor Mahia had requested the Confederation of African Football (Caf) to push the game forward owing to travel technicalities. 

Gor Mahia squad:

Gad Mathew, Philemon Otieno, Michael Apudo, Charles Momanyi, Juma Andrew, Ernest Wendo, Sydney Ochieng, Samuel Onyango

Tito Okello, Jules Ulimwengu, Geoffrey Ochieng, Bonface Oluoch, Kevin Wesonga, Joachim Oluoch, Nicholas Omondi, Benson Omalla, Frank Odhiambo, Clifton Miheso

Technical Staff:  Samuel Omollo, Patrick Odhiambo, Jolawi Obondo, Willis Ochieng, Victor Nyaoro, Frederick Otieno

Officials: Dolfina Odhiambo, Gerphas Okuku

Gor Mahia have finally arrived in Algeria ahead of their Saturday, second preliminary round game in the Caf Champions League against CR Belouizdad.

The Kenyan champions left for North Africa on Thursday aboard Qatar Airways and connected to Algeria through Doha. The club has confirmed they have safely arrived in Algeria.

"After weathering a journey marred with challenges in securing a flight to Algeria, the team has safely landed in Algiers, the capital city of the North African country for [Saturday's] Champions League preliminary match against Belouizdad," the East African outfit communicated on their official portal.

Team manager Jolawi Obondo has stated the team is upbeat ahead of the game against the hosts.

"Though long, we have had the best journey so far," Obondo said.

"Much improved services from Qatar Airways. The stop-over was less than two hours in Doha. The boys are upbeat and we will take some rest before having a feel of the pitch."

Defender Philemon Otieno, who is the assistant captain, promised the team will give their best in the game.

"The journey has been okay and we thank God for that," the experienced captain confirmed.

"We are all fine and the mood is good, we are ready to give our best tomorrow [Saturday]."

Captain Kenneth Muguna is among the players who missed the trip owing to a rib injury.

Experienced midfielder Bernard Ondiek is also out with an injury, the same as John Ochieng'.

18-players left the country on Thursday night for North Africa.

The team en route to Algeria comprises mostly of local players as Ulimwengu and Tito Okello are the only foreigners available.

The match was rescheduled for December 26 after Gor Mahia had requested the Confederation of African Football (Caf) to push the game forward owing to travel technicalities. 

Gor Mahia squad:

Gad Mathew, Philemon Otieno, Michael Apudo, Charles Momanyi, Juma Andrew, Ernest Wendo, Sydney Ochieng, Samuel Onyango

Tito Okello, Jules Ulimwengu, Geoffrey Ochieng, Bonface Oluoch, Kevin Wesonga, Joachim Oluoch, Nicholas Omondi, Benson Omalla, Frank Odhiambo, Clifton Miheso

Technical Staff:  Samuel Omollo, Patrick Odhiambo, Jolawi Obondo, Willis Ochieng, Victor Nyaoro, Frederick Otieno

Officials: Dolfina Odhiambo, Gerphas Okuku. 

Young Africans (Yanga SC) chairman Mshindo Msolla is confident the team will be stronger in the second round of the Mainland Premier League.

Yanga hit the half-way mark unbeaten, a record only they enjoy, and Msolla has explained why he thinks the upcoming final round would even be better for them.

“Speaking with experience as a coach, I think the final round is going to be better because coach Cedric Kaze came when the first round was almost heading to the final mark and managed to do even better,” Msolla told Mwanaspoti.

“For now, the coach has fully understood the team and the players have also understood the coach and how he wants them to play. We will have the best team that is solid and is ready to play like a unit especially after the Chan break.

“As the administrators of the club, we are very happy on what the coaches, led by Kaze are doing and also we are satisfied with what the players have shown in the 17 matches that they have played.”

The official also lauded the support extended to them by the sponsors' GSM who played a key role in the acquisition of new stars.

Peter Mauya, Mukoko Tonombe, Tuisila Kisinda, Farid Musa, Bakari Mwamnyeto, Yacouba Sogne, Michael Sarpong and Carlinhos – although he has been battling an injury recently - are the new players who have had a great impact on the team.

“As one of the officials, I must accept that we must appreciate GSM for three things; the fact they accepted to sign players for this team is the main reason why we have such a quality squad,” he concluded.

“When we let go of a number of players, some felt we were doing away with a good team but the arrival of new ones has shown that we were right to make that decision.

“They have facilitated us to have the players in the best camp and have the best training facilities. This has made our players calm and to focus on producing results on the pitch.

“GSM have motivated the players and for that reason, they play hard knowing that something huge awaits them if they win a particular match.

“Our fans have also supported the team whenever they go for matches. Even if Yanga are playing away, you would see that 80% of the fans are for Yanga.”

From the 17 games, Yanga have won 13 and the rest ended in draws as they sit at the top with 43 points.

Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder and manager Tim Sherwood has hailed Wilfred Ndidi’s contribution to Leicester City since he returned from injury.

The 24-year-old midfielder suffered a groin injury at the start of the season which kept him out of action for about three months.

Ndidi returned from injury against Sheffield United on December 12 and helped the Foxes secure victory in the encounter.

Leicester City have won four of their last five games since the Nigeria international came back from the groin problem, including a 2-0 win over Tottenham last time out.

The Foxes’ impressive performances ensured their progress on the Premier League table to second spot after gathering 27 points from 14 games.

Sherwood has credited Leicester’s run of fine form to the solid defensive displays from the Super Eagles star and believes with the midfielder, Brendan Rodgers’ men can extend their winning form when they take on Manchester United on Boxing Day.

“They have got Ndidi back, I think he’s given them an injection of energy which they have been missing in that midfield area, to supplement Tielemans and Dennis Praet,” Sherwood told Premier League Production.

“Maddison’s come back to life because they’ve got their energy in the midfield area and if Manchester United fullbacks leave, Vardy would be sprinting in there, he would be hurting them and stretching them down the sides.”

Ndidi has been a consistent performer for Leicester City since he teamed up with the club from Belgian side Genk in 2017.

Last season, the Nigeria international played 32 league games for the King Power Stadium outfit to help them finish fifth on the Premier League table and secure a Europa League ticket.

In the current campaign, Ndidi has only made eight appearances across all competitions for the Foxes, including six in the English top-flight due to his injury problems.

The midfielder will be expected to be on parade when the King Power Stadium outfit takes on Manchester United.

Ndidi is also a key member of the Nigeria national team and has played more than 30 games for the West African side.

His recent injury problem forced him to miss the Super Eagles' last Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sierra Leone but will hope to return to the side in their next outing in the campaign.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (Fufa) has released goalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba for failing to observe the coronavirus regulations.

Although Fufa did not specifically state Kajoba’s wrong, it went further to confirm the Vipers head coach will not be part of the pre-African Nations Championship (Chan) squad.

“Fufa has released one of the Uganda Cranes technical staff Fred Kajoba after not being able to observe the camp regulations at the team’s hotel in Kisasi which require all members of the contingent to follow the strict Covid-19 Standard Operations Procedures,” the federation announced on Friday.

“Kajoba will therefore not travel with the Uganda Cranes contingent on Monday 28th December 2020 when they fly out of the country for a pre-Chan tournament in Cameroon in preparation for the Chan finals that start mid-January 2021.  

“A replacement for the goalkeeping coach will be named by the Fufa executive in due course.”

The dismissal means the Venoms’ tactician will be missing a national assignment yet again after he was not available for a week-long training trip to Dubai in September.

Head coach Johnathan McKinstry picked goalkeepers Joel Mutakubwa of Kyetume FC, Nafian Alionzi of URA FC, and Police FC’s Tom Ikara for the continental bonanza and the trio are now set to work with another coach after the former Crane’s custodian was dismissed.

The squad also includes Ivan Bogere, Aziz Kayondo and Bobosi Byaruhanga who are part of the U20 national side.

They were key during the 2020 U20 Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) Championship which they won and sealed a place in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Provisional Squad:

Goalkeepers: Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume), Nafian Alionzi (URA), Tom Ikara (Police),

Defenders: Eric Ssenjobe (Police), Aziz Kayondo (Vipers), Derrick Ndahiro (SC Villa), Paul Willa (Vipers), Ashraf Mandela (URA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers), Mustafa Mujjuzi (Kyetume), Patrick Mbowa (URA), Murushid Juuko (Express), Muhamood Hassan (Police),

Midfielders: Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Tonny Mawejje (Police), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers), Karim Watambala (Vipers), Saidi Kyeyune (URA), Hassan Ssenyonjo (Wakiso Giants),

Forwards: Ben Ocen (Police), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers), Vianne Ssekajjugo (Wakiso Giants), Joseph Ssemujju (BUL), Joakim Ojera (URA), Milton Karisa (Vipers), Stephen Mukwala (URA), Mohamed Shaban (Vipers), Ivan Bogere (Proline).

In pursuit of their first win in the Indian Super League (ISL), Robbie Fowler's East Bengal are set to take on Chennaiyin FC on Saturday at the Tilak Maidan Stadium, Goa.

The Red and Golds are struggling in their maiden ISL season and have just two points from their first six matches. They came agonisingly close to registering their first win of the season in their last game against Kerala Blasters but Jeakson's last-gasp equaliser spoiled their party.

Coach Robbie Fowler, though, claimed that conceding last-minute goal against Kerala Blasters has not affected the players' mentality and he is hoping to get a positive result against Chennaiyin.

"The moral of the team is really good. At times we are unlucky and it is unfortunate that you concede a goal in the last minute but our lads worked really well. We had lots of chances and we could have won the game quite convincingly but football is like that. There are ups and downs and we have had plenty of downs at the moment but the morale of the lads is brilliant and hopefully, we will have a lot of ups starting the next game," said the East Bengal gaffer.

Goal had earlier revealed that the Red and Golds decided to release nine Indian players from their squad and will be sending them on loan for the remainder of the season.

Justifying the decision of sending players on loan midway into the season, the Liverpool great mentioned that the decision was taken in the best interests of the club and he would happy to see all the nine players shine in their loan stint and prove him wrong.

"We are bringing in new names in the squad. We are always looking for players who are available and we feel can benefit the team. We are trying to bring in one or two players, obviously, I cannot say who. As for the lads who have gone out, we got opportunities to look over a five to six weeks period and we just felt that we are not going to play them as much.

"So it is not me being nasty and vindictive. It is what is best for the club. We are trying to get the best results for this club and we feel that some of the players who aren't playing they can elsewhere and get games. It is not nice and someone has to make the decisions and the decision is mine to make. My job is to try and get the very best of results I can, bring the best people in the club.

"Everyone has had an opportunity. People will say that he has not played this game but every day is an opportunity. Training sessions are a massive opportunity to show the rest of the staff how could he can become and I don't anyone can say that he hadn't had the opportunity. We feel that this particular group I have got now are maybe in a better place and that is not me being derogatory against the players.

"I have got a lot of time with all the players who were going on loan but now I told them that this is an opportunity to go and play games. It is an opportunity for you to go and prove me wrong. and that is all I can do."

The former England international also cited an example from his own career to motivate those nine players who are leaving the club.

"I can speak from my own life. I had played for Liverpool for a number of years and obviously, I didn't want to leave but eventually I had to because I needed to play games and my ethos was to show the manager exactly what you are missing. It is up to those players to play in the ISL or I-League and prove that my decision has not been the right one for them. We wish them well and I want them all to prove me wrong and come back and say that you made a mistake there."

Fowler heaped praise on opposition manager Csaba Laszlo and suggested that he considers Chennaiyin as a very tough opponent to play against.

"Their (Chennaiyin) manager (Csaba Laszlo) is someone I look up to in terms what he has achieved in the game, He got a solid team, some excellent players. Our job is to stop their great players and that is difficult because good players shine. Also, consistency is something that Chennaiyin has. They have done this for lots of years now. Good solid team, good solid manager and it will be tough to break them down. But we have to go out there, believe in ourselves and give our best shot and we will try and get the three points," said the British coach.

Manchester City revealed on Christmas Day that Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker and another two members of staff have tested positive for coronavirus.

Striker Jesus scored an early opening goal in the 4-1 Carabao Cup quarter-final win at Arsenal on Tuesday, while defender Walker made a substitute appearance as Manchester City continued their dominance in the competition they have won in three consecutive seasons and in five of the last seven.

The duo will miss the Boxing Day Premier League encounter with Newcastle United as they self-isolate after contracting COVID-19.

City face Everton two days after Newcastle's visit to the Etihad as the club then continues the hectic festive period with a trip to Chelsea on January 3.

After that, Pep Guardiola's side will look ahead to Manchester United in a mouthwatering EFL Cup semi-final derby at Old Trafford on January 6.

City said in a statement: "Manchester City FC can confirm that Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker, and two members of staff have tested positive for COVID-19.

"All four personnel will now observe a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine.

"Everyone at the club wishes our colleagues a speedy recovery over the Christmas period ahead of their return to work, training and competition."

Jesus has been vital for Manchester City this season as fellow striker Sergio Aguero has battled injury issues.

Aguero, who recently returned to the first team, has asked for "a little bit of time" as he looks to get back to his best after undergoing knee surgery.

The Brazilian has featured 11 times in all competitions, scoring four total goals with two of those finishes coming in the Premier League.

Walker, meanwhile, has appeared 18 times in all competitions for Manchester City, having featured in 12 of the club's 13 total league matches this campaign.

Manchester City currently sit eighth in the table, but have a game in hand on each of the top seven aside from third-place Manchester United.

Guardiola's side are currently eight points back of league-leaders Liverpool, who host West Brom on Sunday, as well as three points behind fourth-place Everton, who are level with Man Utd on 26 points having played an extra game.

Ashley Cole is halfway through saying that Lionel Messi only scored one goal against Chelsea during his eight-year spell at Stamford Bridge when he realises that the Barcelona superstar actually never netted against his Blues.

So, how did he do it, then? Surely, the former full-back knows the secret to stopping arguably the greatest player in history?

"It wasn't just me!" a smiling Cole stresses during an interview with Goal as part of the Nissan UEFA Champions League Trophy Tour.

"That's been thrown about but the team effort was massive. When it came to stopping players like him, we had a great team understanding and togetherness at Chelsea.

"Our midfield was integral in that regard. It certainly wasn't just me. I wasn't blowing my trumpet there by pointing that out!"

Indeed, Cole proves nothing but humble as he picks his perfect player.

While selecting Brazil legend Cafu for his stamina, the former England international admits, "I thought I had a good engine but when I came up against him, I was left on my knees!

"I even later played against him in a charity game for David Beckham and I don't know how old he was at the time but he still had the stamina he had at 20 or 25 years of age! He was non-stop, a machine."

Then, in explaining his choice of Arjen Robben's left foot ahead of all others, Cole concedes, "I played against him for Roma and he absolutely destroyed me!"

Cole, though, was for many years the best left-back in the world, an excellent defender who was also fantastic going forward.

He enjoyed numerous memorable battles with Cristiano Ronaldo during the Portuguese's stint in the Premier League, when he was primarily used as a winger by Manchester United.

"I was going to say David Beckham here, because I think he could put a ball on a sixpence, but I think I will go for Ronaldo," the 40-year-old muses.

"Ronaldo could go inside and out. Also, the quality of his right foot, the quality of his shooting from every angle and different ranges, the quality of his free-kicks with the bend he could get on the ball, he was fantastic.

"He was one you just couldn't give any space to. So, it was about being on the front foot, being aggressive and trying to get out to him and not let him get his head up and start doing the stepovers.

"It was about understanding that 'I can't let balls go in behind me.' I had to allow them go to his feet, but get out quick to him and stop him at source."

That tactic didn't often work against Ronaldinho, though. As Cole admits, sometimes he was just left awestruck by the fancy footwork of the Brazilian, whom he names as the most skilful attacker he ever faced.

"Even though I was in battles against him, sometimes I'd laugh to myself when he pulled off a crazy piece of skill or nutmegged someone," the Chelsea academy coach enthuses.

"Even as you're playing against him, you enjoy watching him play. The way he floated across that turf, doing stepovers, finding passes with every party of his foot... He was like a magician.

"You see a lot of players who feel like they have the skills but he was efficient, too; he did it in the right areas. He cut teams apart with his skill. He had everything."

Ronaldinho also scored three goals against Chelsea but, interestingly, not one during Cole's time at the club. The World Cup winner has that in common with former Barca team-mate Messi.

Not that Cole will take any credit for that coincidence, of course...

The ominous challenges are coming thick and fast for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal these days, and the Gunners are set for another stern test this weekend when they host Chelsea in the Premier League.

London derbies are always feisty affairs, and even without fans, expect drama aplenty as the hosts look to end their winless streak and Chelsea seek the win to take them back into the top four.

Confidence is likely to be low for Arsenal after they were thumped 4-1 by Manchester City in midweek, while Chelsea will be buoyed by their comfortable victory over West Ham United.

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After consecutive defeats by Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Frank Lampard finds himself under more pressure as well, but it’s the Gunners—who could be just one point off the relegation zone by the end of the weekend—who are more desperate for the points.

Arsenal vs Chelsea: Team News

Thomas Partey remains absent for Arsenal due to injury—a big loss for Arteta, whose midfield has looked chaotic at times since the Ghana powerhouse limped off against Tottenham Hotspur.

Without him, Arteta will likely plump for Mohamed Elneny and Dani Ceballos in the heart of the park.

Granit Xhaka is an option, after returning from suspension, but it remains to be seen if he can be risked again following his mindless sending off against Burnley.

Indeed, Arteta may risk losing certain portions of the Gunners fanbase if he restores Xhaka to the starting XI.

The coach may have a big decision to make about Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as well; the Gabon striker has been sidelined with a calf injury, but could he be rushed back to action as the goal-shy Gunners look to take the game to their neighbours?

After picking up a shin injury against City in midweek—marring an otherwise classy display—Gabriel Magalhaes is also a doubt for the Gunners, who may need to turn to David Luiz to partner Rob Holding and Kieran Tierney in the back three.

Lampard must make a decision about whether he sticks with Tammy Abraham—so impressive against West Ham United—or goes with Olivier Giroud against his former employers, while he also needs to decide if he’ll stick with the underwhelming Kai Havertz or reshuffle his midfield.

Full-backs Reece James and Ben Chilwell are unlikely to play, while Hakim Ziyech and Callum Hudson-Odoi are also doubtful despite making progress in their injury recoveries.

Arsenal vs Chelsea: Key facts & stats

Chelsea have a fine recent record against the Gunners, having lost just two of their last 17 meetings against the Gunners (in September 2016 and January 2019).

They’ve won nine of those matches, including the same fixture last season, when Arsenal threw away a 1-0 lead with seven minutes to play.

The Gunners are in the midst of a miserable run, having failed to win in seven matches—a streak that’s included five defeats.

Only once before in Premier League history have they gone longer without a win—eight matches between November 1992 and January 1993—although it’s worth noting that Arsenal haven’t lost at home on Boxing Day since 1987 when they were defeated by Nottingham Forest.

Memorably, they defeated Chelsea in this same fixture in 2001 and will be hoping for a similar result this time around.

If Arteta is in two minds about recalling Aubameyang, he may be encouraged by the striker’s scoring record on Boxing Day. The Gabon hitman scored for the Gunners on both December 26th in 2018 and 2019, and would be the first Arsenal player since Thierry Henry to complete the hat-trick.

Arsenal vs Chelsea: Predictions

As much as Arteta and his side may need all three points against Chelsea, it’s hard to see how they will get the better of the Blues.

With Partey out, and with Gabriel and Aubameyang doubtful, Arteta could be without his best defender, best midfielder and best striker, and considering the side’s overall toil at the moment, don’t expect any of the supporting cast to step up.

Under-fire Nicolas Pepe could be key, although a series of anonymous performances this season has raised questions about his desire to turn things around in North London.

A draw may be the best the Gunners can hope for, and even that could be far-fetched against a Chelsea side who looked so complete going forward against the Hammers.

Prediction: Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea

2020 was a mixed bag for Thomas Partey.

After a reasonably good individual year for Atletico Madrid, one of Africa’s brightest exports secured his dream move to Arsenal on Deadline Day.

The late move was celebrated by the majority of Gooners due to the Ghana star’s profile and rounded nature, which solved some of their midfield issues.

Some supporters felt the club should have prioritised signing a more creative player like Houssem Aouar but understood and accepted the arrival of Partey from Atletico.

Partey: The story of 2020

While Diego Simeone’s team appeared to have plateaued in 2019/20, Partey grew in popularity and was linked to some of Europe’s top sides, including Arsenal — the side he eventually joined — and Chelsea for a bit.

Regardless of Los Rojiblancos’ struggles, the West African was one of their best performers in the Champions League round of 16 tie against then-defending European champions Liverpool, who they eliminated 4-2 on aggregate.

Simeone’s team had actually struggled in La Liga before the lockdown but were top beneficiaries of football’s suspension in March. They were able to rally post-lockdown to win seven of their 11 top flight games to end joint-third in the league, a staggering 17 points adrift of Real Madrid.

Seemingly on the wane and struggling to compete with a weak Los Blancos and even weaker Barcelona, it seemed a good time for Partey to depart Madrid.

Arsenal under Mikel Arteta presented an interesting adventure. Having won the FA Cup beating Manchester City and Chelsea in the semi-final and final respectively and beaten the newly-crowned Premier League champions in the Community Shield, the Gunners switch made sense, in theory.

While Goal argued before 19/20 ended that a move to Arteta’s team was odd due to Arsenal’s lack of Champions League football and made a case for choosing Chelsea instead, the 27-year-old swapped Madrid for North London in early October.

Unfortunately, injuries have blighted the all-round midfielder’s time in England so far, while the miserable run of results heading into December have left Arsenal closer to the bottom three than the top four.

Partey’s quality has shone through in games he’s played, most notably at Old Trafford where he put on a masterclass along with Mohamed Elneny as the London giants beat Manchester United 1-0; whereas he’s drawn criticism in some parts over his decision to, more or less, substitute himself in the 2-0 derby defeat by Tottenham Hotspur at the start of December.

With a return date still unknown, the Ghanaian has certainly had a forgettable start at Arsenal and will hope for improved luck in the new year.

Partey: Any transfer rumours?

None. It’ll take the most dramatic turn of events to see a player chased by the club to consider leaving in January or even next summer.

Partey: One big ambition for 2021

Two months ago after the West African signed for the Gunners, the objective was certainly for the ex-Atletico star to increase the side’s prospects as they looked to return to Europe’s premier club competition.

Now, with the situation at the three-time Premier League champions apparently desperate, finishing in the CL spots will mark a brilliant first year for the midfielder, regardless of how faulty a start he might have had.

If qualifying via a top four league finish proves to out of reach, winning the Europa League — which guarantees an automatic slot in the continent’s prestigious showpiece — will equally suffice.

Either way, taking Arsenal into the Champions League for the first time since 16/17 will be massive for the Gunners who have fallen behind domestically and on the continent.

Partey: One big fear for 2021

On an individual front: if the injuries persist and the midfield man’s unable to play a significant part for the rest of the season.

For the club: if Arsenal miss out on European football totally and have to play 21/22 without any continental football.

The worst case scenario, which seems inconceivable, will be for the Gunners to suffer the ignominy of relegation from the Premier League.

Gor Mahia team manager Jolawi Obondo is hopeful the team will rise above their internal struggles and make Kenya proud in the Caf Champions League against CR Belouizdad.

The Kenyan ambassadors are en route to Algeria for the rescheduled tie and the official has explained how Gor Mahia have always overcome their own problems and got good results.

“Everybody knows that with this Covid-19 so many things have been difficult, and specifically money issues have been tough in all the institutions,” Obondo told the club’s Online TV.

“And Gor Mahia are not an exception as we have had it rough but at the end of the day we talk to the boys, they understood and came back for training. They are now ready to play football and represent the country and by the end of it, we want to go all the way to the group stage.

“I have been there [Algiers] not once or even twice and so I know the place well and it is a bit challenging especially when it comes to matters [of the] weather. But I know Gor Mahia whenever we have internal challenges that is the time we rise and surprisingly give good results.

“I know we will put a good effort and get good results and come back home so that we can finish the job. We are just playing for a goal even if they win 2-1, 1-1 or whatever the result we know we can get good results in Nairobi.”

Obondo also picked previous encounters with teams from the North African hemisphere as another reason why they are in a better position to tackle Belouizdad.

“It is going to be a challenging match because we know how the Arabs play especially in the first 15 minutes because I have the experience of Esperance and Zamalek. It is always their target that in the first 15 minutes they must get a goal,” he concluded.

“But what we have been doing and what the coaches have been doing as well as the mood from the boys, I can deduct that we are going to put a good effort there and get a good result so that while in Nairobi we can finalise it and make the country proud.”

18 players have been selected for the Saturday match but the Premier League giants will do without Kenneth Muguna, Bernard Ondiek, Nicholas Kipkirui and John Ochieng.

Wazito FC head coach Francis Kimanzi has conceded he has to push every department in the team for better results in their forthcoming assignments.

The immediate former Harambee Stars coach has seen his team pick just five points from as many Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League matches. The 44-year-old says he is building a team and is not focusing on specific departments.

"On where there is an improvement, we will ensure it is maintained and where adjustment is needed we will do so as well," Kimanzi told Goal.

"I do not want to say a certain department is better than another. This is a team I am building and I must push every department to work harder."

On Thursday, Wazito recorded their second defeat in the FKF Premier League against high-flying KCB FC.

In the 29th minute, former Mathare United winger Kevin Kimani managed to bring in a good cross from the right. Michael Owino managed to head the ball but it went over the crossbar.

The former had a chance to test the goalkeeper from a free-kick in the 35th minute, but just like Owino, his effort went over the bar.

On the Banker's side, Derrick Otanga and Simon Munala had chances to score but were closed down quickly.

Henry Onyango managed to get in a good position in the 38th minute but his effort missed the target.

The goalkeepers of both teams had less work to do in the first half as the strikers failed to beat the defenders.

After the break, the Zedekiah Otieno-led charges upped their tempo hoping to get a goal. Their tactical change eventually paid dividends in the 50th minute when Otanga was slipped into the danger zone, and he managed to beat goalkeeper Otieno for an opening goal.

"We did not play well; if we would have done so then we could have ended the game with a point or three," Kimanzi said.

"We accept the result now we have to go and work on where we went wrong in order to improve in our next assignment. The whole team needs to be motivated and pushed."  

Uganda Cranes midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala has promised assists and goals for the team in the African Nations Championship (Chan).

The Vipers SC midfielder is among the 28 players preparing for the biennial competition. The youngster has also lauded the training sessions in camp ahead of the competition.

"We have spent three days at the camp. The training is very good, the coaches have helped us improve on our weaknesses," Watambala said.

"We are not looking at just competing, but looking at bringing the trophy back home. We promise to give our best at the tournament, especially me as an individual, expect more assists and goals from me."

The Venoms midfielder was part of the Cranes squad that recently played South Sudan in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Cranes are sweating over the fitness of striker Muhamad Shaban who limped off from training on Wednesday.

The Vipers SC striker reportedly sustained a hamstring injury but will be assessed further.

The attacker had just made a return to football after a knee injury kept him out of action for 18 months.

The Johnathan Mckinstry-led charges will leave the country for West Africa where they will take part in a pre-Chan tournament that will also involve hosts Cameroon, Niger and Zambia. The competition will be played between January 1-7.

In the Chan competition, Uganda is in the group alongside defending champions Morocco, Rwanda and Togo.

Tonny Mawejje, Ben Ocen and Murushid Juuko are some of the top players in the team.

Uganda Cranes provisional squad

Goalkeepers: Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume), Nafian Alionzi (URA), Tom Ikara (Police)

Defenders: Eric Ssenjobe (Police), Aziz Kayondo (Vipers), Derrick Ndahiro (SC Villa), Paul Willa (Vipers), Ashraf Mandela (URA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers), Mustafa Mujuzi (Kyetume), Patrick Mbowa (URA), Murushid Juuko (Express), Muhamood Hassan (Police)

Midfielders: Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Tony Mawejje (Police), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers), Karim Watambala (Vipers), Saidi Kyeyune (URA), Hassan Ssenyonjo (Wakiso Giants)

Forwards: Ben Ocen (Police), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers), Vianne Ssekajugo (Wakiso Giants), Joseph Ssemujju (BUL), Joachim Ojera (URA), Milton Karisa (Vipers), Stephen Mukwala (URA), Mohamed Shaban (Vipers), Ivan Bogere (Proline).  

South African Football Association (Safa) president Dr Danny Jordaan says Patrice Motsepe is a revolutionary choice for the Confederation of African Football (Caf) presidency. 

Jordaan and his organisation are backing Motsepe, who is bidding for the role of Caf president with the elections set to take place in March 2021.

Motsepe's campaign is gaining serious momentum having been publicly backed by football associations in Sierra Leone, Botswana, Mozambique, Angola, Benin, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Nigeria as he looks to dethrone current Caf president Ahmad Ahmad. 

"His business acumen, observance of governance, legal training, global business, networking and skill, his love of African football, makes him a revolutionary choice for the leadership of African football,” Jordaan said on Daily Sun. 

“So it is clear to me that what Africa needs at the moment is what Patrice offers. So we must give him a chance and support. This is the man who was once named among the 100 best CEOs by Forbes magazine.”

Motsepe, who is the founder and chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, is one of the richest people in Africa and he owns Premier Soccer League (PSL) giants, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Jordaan stated there is much more work to be done to get Motsepe in the office with Morocco set to host the Caf Elective General Assembly. 

“He has to go and meet as many FA presidents as possible and that is what we are encouraging him to do,” he added. 

However, Motsepe refused to discuss his ambitions for the Caf presidency, but he stated he would listen to the views of FA leaders across the continent. 

“It will be extremely premature for me to say anything. This is the time for me to listen and be exposed to be the views of various leaders and presidents,” he said when speaking on the same publication. 

Motsepe would need to step down at Sundowns if he is elected new Caf president because Safa has strict rulings against club owners serving as an association president at the same time.

The 58-year-old bought a 51% share in Sundowns in 2004 and later took total control of the Tshwane giants by buying the remaining share and becoming the sole owner of the club.