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Club World Cup Poses Challenge for Man City and Chelsea, Premier League Chief Suggests

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has expressed concerns that this year’s Club World Cup may pose significant challenges for Manchester City and Chelsea as they prepare for the upcoming English top-flight season.

Both clubs will represent England in FIFA’s expanded 32-team tournament taking place in the United States. Players’ unions have indicated the possibility of legal action based on welfare issues, while national leagues have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the potential repercussions on their own competitions.

The final of the Club World Cup is scheduled for July 13, with the 2025/26 Premier League season set to commence on August 16.

“The leagues and the players’ unions are dissatisfied with the decisions being made at a global level,” Masters stated in an interview with Sky Sports.

“We have observed the introduction of the Club World Cup, which will undoubtedly affect the Premier League.

“If either Manchester City or Chelsea reaches the final of that tournament, the Premier League will begin just four weeks later, and all players are contractually entitled to three weeks of rest.

“So, how will that be managed? I would say it will be quite challenging.”

  • ‘Premier League not a pension fund’ –

In addition, Masters emphasized that English football is “not on a financial precipice,” reiterating the Premier League’s apprehensions regarding the potential effects of an independent regulator on the sport.

During the 2023/24 season, the Premier League incurred over £45 million ($56 million) in legal expenses while striving to maintain its regulations amid challenges from various clubs.

Furthermore, the Premier League is expected to face additional substantial legal costs this season, particularly due to the ongoing major disciplinary case against Manchester City.

The reigning champions were charged in 2023 with over 100 alleged violations of the Premier League’s financial regulations.

An independent commission reviewed the case from September to December, and a decision is currently awaited.

City has also questioned the legality of the league’s associated party transaction (APT) regulations, which are designed to ensure that transactions with organizations connected to a club’s ownership are conducted at fair market value.

The objective of both the current and previous British governments in advocating for an independent regulator is to protect the financial viability of clubs within the top five tiers of English football.

However, Masters emphasized that an excess of regulations could undermine the excitement that is fundamental to the Premier League’s appeal.

“We possess that element of risk, that ongoing thrill of captivating entertainment,” he stated.

“There are numerous factors contributing to the Premier League’s global appeal, but I believe that this aspect distinguishes us from others.”

He further remarked, “We have consistently supported investment within reasonable risk parameters. The Premier League is not a pension fund; it is a venue where capital is exposed to risk. There is no guarantee of outcomes—this uncertainty is what makes it engaging.

“We are concerned that a new regulatory body might adopt a risk-averse stance, potentially limiting clubs’ capacity to invest. The ability to invest is crucial for maintaining competitive balance and the element of risk that I have mentioned.”

In Limbo: Fate of 348 Primary Schools Hangs in the Balance As Schools Reopen

A Junior Secondary School Teacher engages a class in a lesson on September 22, 2023.

As pupils prepare to return to classes next week, 348 primary schools face uncertainty following the Ministry of Education’s directive to close their boarding facilities.

These institutions did not meet essential safety and compliance requirements after comprehensive evaluations carried out in September and October 2024.

Among the affected schools is Tabaka Academy, located in South Mugirango, Kisii County, which was identified in the Ministry of Education’s assessment.

A circular issued on November 27, 2024, by Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang confirmed that Tabaka Academy, along with numerous others, failed to satisfy the mandated safety criteria.

This situation has left Mogendi Tamaro, the director of Tabaka Academy, uncertain about the institution’s future and the well-being of its students.

Mogendi Tamaro remarked, “While many schools have made strides, some continue to face challenges. We have also been impacted and remain hopeful for a prompt resolution that will allow us to reopen.”

As private school directors and headteachers express their concerns, parents find themselves confused about how to respond to the directive.

The ambiguity surrounding the closure of boarding sections has prompted families to seek clarity regarding the implications for their children’s education.

The Ministry of Education revisited its guidelines in the wake of the tragic incident at Hillside Endarasha Academy, where 21 children aged 9 to 13 lost their lives.

This action, perceived by many as a hasty response, occurred amid increasing calls for reform in boarding schools.

The Ministry of Health raised significant issues during their dormitory assessments, including safety, sanitation standards, fire safety measures, and the overall well-being of learners.

Despite the concerns voiced by parents and educators, the Ministry of Education remains resolute, insisting that all schools must adhere to the newly established safety standards.

In the meantime, parents with children enrolled in the affected schools find themselves at a critical juncture, with many expressing frustration over the financial implications.

Relief for 81 Stranded Mothers As Sakaja Steps In To Cover Medical Bills

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has stepped in to cover medical bills exceeding Ksh.2.5 million, allowing 81 mothers stuck in four hospitals due to unpaid bills to finally go home.

Martin Wafula, the CEO of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, shared that Sakaja took care of the bills for 25 mothers, totaling Ksh.987,345, through the Social Health Authority (SHA) program.

“The total for those 25 mothers was Ksh.987,345. We opted to pay through SHA and registered them for a year at Ksh.120,000,” Wafula said.

“SHA will handle their outstanding bill of Ksh.987,345 and help them understand its importance for future payments,” he added.

At Mbagathi Hospital, 17 mothers were discharged after their Ksh.782,100 bills were waived.

The governor also settled the bills for 28 mothers at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, clearing their arrears of Ksh.420,000, as confirmed by CEO Christine Kiteshu.

“The Governor requested their discharge, and we had everything arranged beforehand,” Kiteshu explained.

At Mutuini County Hospital, CEO Fredrick Obwanda confirmed that 11 mothers were released after their Ksh.330,000 bills were waived.

In his announcement, Governor Sakaja emphasized his administration’s dedication to enhancing healthcare access.

“Our hospitals are now better run, with CEOs managing Level 5 facilities, which has drawn in more patients. We can’t turn away mothers in need just because they can’t pay,” he stated.

Land Dispute Escalates as Attackers Destroy 15,000 Acres of Maize in Trans Mara

Tensions continue to escalate in the Angata region along the Trans Mara West border in Narok County following a raid by unidentified individuals who damaged several acres of maize crops on a 15,000-acre tract of land on New Year’s Eve.

Local residents have denounced the incident, which is believed to be connected to ongoing border disputes and a worsening security situation in the area.

Reports indicate that this destructive act commenced on December 29, 2024, resulting in significant losses for the community.

In response, residents are urging the government to take swift action to improve security, which they attribute to the unresolved border conflicts.

Trans Mara South OCPD Bashir Ali has conveyed a sense of hope regarding the ongoing initiatives to engage with neighboring communities, following a series of consultative meetings involving security personnel from both Narok and Migori Counties.

Bashir also stated that the recent incident is currently under thorough investigation.

Explosive Incident: Tesla Cybertruck Blast Shakes Trump Las Vegas Hotel

A Tesla Cybertruck caught fire and exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to seven others. Authorities have stated that the FBI is investigating the possibility of the explosion being an act of terrorism.

Witnesses captured videos from both inside and outside the hotel, depicting the vehicle engulfed in flames while parked outside.

This incident occurred just hours after a separate event in New Orleans, where a man drove a truck into a crowd celebrating New Year’s Day, leading to 15 fatalities.

The Trump International Hotel is affiliated with the Trump Organization, owned by President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to return to the White House on January 20. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has been a prominent supporter of Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and serves as an adviser to the incoming administration.

“Given the involvement of a Cybertruck and the Trump hotel, there are numerous questions that need addressing,” stated Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department during a press conference later in the day.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Schwartz informed reporters that it remains uncertain whether the explosion qualifies as an act of terrorism.

“I understand the public’s interest in that terminology, and we are actively working to determine if this constitutes a terrorist attack,” Schwartz remarked.

He also mentioned that the FBI has identified the driver of the rented vehicle, which was obtained in Colorado, but has not yet disclosed the individual’s identity.

Ultimatum Issued: Kalonzo Gives President Ruto One Week to Resolve Abductions

Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa have issued a seven-day ultimatum to President William Ruto, demanding an end to the increasing incidents of abductions in the country. Should these demands not be met, they have threatened to lead significant anti-government demonstrations.

During a speech in Kakamega, the leaders also called for the immediate and unconditional release of protesters who were arrested on Monday.

They urged the United Nations to reconsider Kenya’s membership in its human rights council, citing what they describe as the government’s blatant disregard for human rights in recent months.

“Listen to the pleas of the parents of these young children. Return these children to their families, and if you fail to do so by next week, you will witness unprecedented demonstrations. Are the people of Mumias ready?” Wamalwa inquired.

“We assure the people of Kakamega, the residents of Mumias East, and all Kenyans that we will not relent until we achieve the liberation of this nation in the people’s year of 2025,” Kalonzo emphasized.

The leaders expressed their belief that the UN should take action against Kenya due to the human rights violations that have occurred over the past year.

“The other member states should suspend Kenya. They should be informed that we will not accept a Kenyan representative sitting on this committee until these abducted children are released. This situation is contrary to our values and is a significant embarrassment for Kenya,” Kalonzo remarked.

“We are giving a seven-day deadline. If we find ourselves in court next Wednesday and neither he nor Inspector General Kanja has released those six youths, including Bill Mwangi and others, he will face serious consequences,” Wamalwa concluded.

Arteta: Arsenal affected by a virus prior to their crucial victory against Brentford.

Mikel Arteta has disclosed that Arsenal’s preparations for their 3-1 victory against Brentford were disrupted by a virus that affected several players within the squad.

A number of key Arsenal players fell ill just before the important Premier League match on Wednesday.

German forward Kai Havertz was sent home due to the illness, while England midfielder Declan Rice was limited to a substitute appearance in the second half.

Martin Odegaard reportedly experienced symptoms prior to the match and, although he started, the Arsenal captain made an error that allowed Bryan Mbeumo to score the opening goal, leading to his substitution later in the game.

Despite these challenges, the Gunners demonstrated resilience at the Gtech Community Stadium, overcoming the outbreak to re-enter the title race.

Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli ensured that Arsenal remained on course for their objectives.

“It impacted players both on and off the field,” Arteta remarked after Arsenal, now in second place, closed the gap to leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

“It is not a serious issue, but it was not an ideal scenario. Regarding the symptoms, Kai was clearly unwell. He exhibited significant symptoms, so we decided to send him home in a car to London.

“Such situations are not uncommon. During this time of year, various challenges arise, including infections and viruses, which is why I prefer to finalize the line-up as late as possible; you can wake up to unexpected developments.”

Arteta expressed optimism that the virus would have subsided by the time his team travels to Brighton on Saturday.

Rashford Hits Back at Outlandish Claims of Man Utd Departure

Marcus Rashford has criticized the “absurd” assertions suggesting that the unsettled Manchester United player is seeking a new agent to facilitate his departure from Old Trafford.

A report released this week indicated that the England forward had engaged with a prominent sports agency in an effort to orchestrate a transfer.

The 27-year-old had previously suggested his willingness to leave United during an interview last month, expressing his readiness for “a new challenge” after experiencing a decline in playing time under the new manager, Ruben Amorim.

The graduate of the United youth academy was excluded from four consecutive matchday squads last month, beginning with the derby against Manchester City, and remained an unused substitute during Monday’s loss to Newcastle.

His performance has been notably poor over the past two seasons, with only four goals scored in the Premier League this season.

Clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea have recently been linked with Rashford.

However, Rashford, who is currently represented by his brother Dwaine Maynard, addressed the recent speculation regarding his future, firmly stating that he has not changed agents.

“There have been numerous false narratives circulating in recent weeks, but this is becoming absurd—I’ve never met with any agency and have no intentions to do so…” he stated on Instagram.

From Saudi Arabia to France: Seko Fofana Joins Rennes

Ivorian international Seko Fofana has officially joined Rennes on a four-and-a-half-year contract, as announced by the Ligue 1 club on Wednesday. This move comes after an 18-month stint in Saudi Arabia.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who has earned 22 caps for the Ivory Coast national team, is reported to have signed for a fee of approximately 20 million euros ($20.8 million).

Fofana, previously the captain of Lens, transferred to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr in the summer of 2023, following his significant contribution to Lens’s return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence.

However, Fofana struggled to establish himself in the Middle Eastern league, both at Al Nassr and during a loan period at Al Ettifaq.

Rennes currently finds itself in 12th place in Ligue 1, only four points clear of the relegation zone, prompting the club to pursue Fofana, who has previously collaborated with Rennes’ executive president Arnaud Pouille during their time at Lens.

“There are many talented players at Rennes, and I believe the club deserves a better position,” Fofana stated. “It is a team I have frequently faced in this league, and I am eager to begin my journey here.”

Murang’a: EABL brand manager who had disappeared during Christmas visit, found alive

Lilian Nyambura Mbugua, who had been missing from her family’s residence in Gikono, Kabati, Murang’a County since December 23, has been located alive.

Her family informed Citizen Digital that the 28-year-old was discovered at a filling station in Maragua Town, Murang’a, shortly after midnight on Tuesday.

“She appeared weak and disoriented,” stated her uncle, George Njuguna. “She mentioned that she found herself at the filling station and requested the attendants to contact her mother.”

Mr. Njuguna further noted that Lilian, who works as a brand manager for East Africa Breweries Limited (EABL) in Nairobi, was taken to a nearby health facility, where medical personnel described her as looking “disturbed.”

“We are coordinating with her employer, and arrangements are being made for her to be transported to Nairobi for additional medical care while the police continue their investigation into the matter,” Njuguna remarked.

Lilian had traveled to her mother’s home on Saturday, December 21, to celebrate the Christmas holidays.

Everything seemed normal, and the family even attended a church service together on Sunday, December 22, before returning home. They enjoyed a festive breakfast and lunch together the following day, Monday.

However, around 5 p.m., Lilian left their gated community for what the family believed was a simple evening walk.

“It appeared as though she had just stepped out for a casual stroll around the estate, as she was still wearing her headscarf and slippers. Her mother was occupied with household chores in the backyard,” Njuguna had previously shared with Citizen Digital.

Unfortunately, she did not return. When the family attempted to contact Lilian on her two mobile phones, they discovered that she had left both devices at home before going out.

“Her car, its keys, laptop, and the keys to her Nairobi residence were also left in the family home, along with all her identification documents,” her uncle added.

The family waited in vain for Lilian’s return and reported her disappearance to the nearby Gikono police post on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 24.

They also got in touch with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kenol. On Saturday, December 28, the DCI informed them that their investigation revealed Lilian had made three phone calls on Saturday evening, just two days before she disappeared.

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