Category: Entertainment

Mutiu Adepoju, a former midfielder for Nigeria, has voiced his opposition to Victor Osimhen being named captain of the Super Eagles. The Galatasaray striker has been mentioned as a potential leader following the retirements of William Troost-Ekong and Ahmed Musa from international duty. Despite his talent, Adepoju believes Osimhen lacks the essential qualities for the role.

Adepoju emphasized that leadership goes beyond raw skill. In a discussion with PM Parrot, he explained that a captain must demonstrate playing ability, leadership traits, emotional stability, and the skill to represent and unify the squad both on and off the field. He stated that individuals who cannot tolerate others or manage their own behavior are unfit to lead effectively.

Currently, Wilfred Ndidi holds the captain’s armband, with Osimhen and Moses Simon serving as vice-captains. Adepoju’s remarks come as part of a broader conversation about the team’s leadership structure, urging that captaincy be reserved for players who can truly command respect and foster team cohesion.

Portugal’s football federation has identified three potential successors for Roberto Martinez, who is expected to leave his post as national team coach following the 2026 World Cup. According to reports from talkSPORT, Martinez’s departure is anticipated after the tournament, with a possible move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr to reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo.

The shortlist includes Jorge Jesus, Abel Ferreira, and Sérgio Conceição, all of whom have strong ties to Portuguese football. Jesus and Ferreira are currently managing clubs in Brazil, while Conceição is a former Porto boss.

Initially, Jose Mourinho was the top target for the role, and discussions were held. However, Mourinho ultimately chose to take over at Real Madrid, leaving the federation to explore other options.

Portugal’s World Cup campaign began with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, a result that has added pressure on Martinez ahead of his expected exit.

Bayern Munich icon Thomas Muller has publicly recommended that his former club pursue Freiburg standout Johan Manzambi, following the midfielder’s impressive showing for Switzerland in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

Manzambi netted twice in a 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, catching the eye of top European clubs. The 20-year-old had already been on Manchester United’s radar this summer transfer window.

Muller spoke highly of the young talent, stating, “He’s a quality player overall. We’ve had him on our radar for some time.” He added, “For me, he’s someone worth considering. He shows great flexibility and a carefree attitude on the pitch.”

The German legend’s comments are seen as a clear signal for Bayern to act quickly to secure Manzambi’s signature, potentially beating Premier League rivals to the deal.

Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck has ignited a fresh wave of controversy by asserting that hip-hop music is no longer a vibrant force. The artist, best known for his track ‘Declan Rice,’ recently echoed a sentiment previously voiced by Wizkid, declaring the genre’s demise. This bold claim emerged as he scrutinized a Spotify ranking of Nigerian artists based on monthly listeners, where no rappers appeared among the top ten.

Odumodublvck took to X to express his view, stating unequivocally that ‘Hip Hop is dead.’ His observation was triggered by the absence of any Nigerian hip-hop acts on the list, which is dominated by singers. The post quickly drew a wide range of reactions, with many critics accusing him of disrespecting a genre that remains influential globally, even if its Nigerian representation is lacking.

The top ten list is headed by Burna Boy with 40.68 million listeners, followed closely by Tems at 40.64 million. Rema holds the third spot with 29.43 million, while Ayra Starr and Wizkid occupy fourth and fifth with 16.84 million and 16.81 million, respectively. The remaining slots are filled by Omah Lay (11.24m), Davido (10.83m), CKay (10.71m), Fireboy DML (9.23m), and Asake (8.69m). Despite Nigeria boasting both veteran and emerging rappers, none have cracked this elite group, a fact that Odumodublvck used to support his controversial stance.

The rapper’s declaration has reopened debates about the state of hip-hop in Nigeria, with many arguing that the genre’s global relevance remains strong, even if local streaming numbers tell a different story.

Nigerian music star Oludemilade Martin Alejo, better known as YCee, recently shared insights into his multi-year absence from the limelight. During a live session with content creator Cater Efe, the ‘Juice’ hitmaker disclosed that stepping away from music was a deliberate choice to focus on personal development.

Describing his time away as a period of self-reflection, YCee stated, ‘I retreated to the mountain for a journey of inner discovery. Now, I am back to do what I love.’ This revelation comes after fans wondered about his sudden disappearance from the industry, which had been marked by chart-topping tracks like ‘Jagaban,’ ‘Omo Alhaji,’ and ‘Juice.’

In the same conversation, the artist explained the origin of his nickname ‘Omo Alhaji,’ noting that his father is a Muslim, though he himself does not actively practice the religion. He described his personal spiritual outlook as rooted entirely in ‘love,’ without subscribing to any specific religious doctrine.

YCee’s return to the scene has generated buzz, as he is known for shaping the Nigerian music landscape with his distinctive style and infectious hits. His confession about prioritizing personal growth over fame offers a refreshing perspective on the pressures of the entertainment world.

Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has clapped back at Emmanuel Obasi, the former husband of Judy Austin, who accused him of blocking access to his kids. In a Friday social media post, Yul set the record straight.

He wrote, ‘Many of my followers have begged me, saying, “Please let him see his children.” I have never prevented any man from visiting his kids. In today’s world, people would rather chase clout and use my name for social media money instead of doing what is right.’

Yul advised, ‘Tell him to contact his ex-wife. If he wants to see or take his children, they should discuss it between themselves. He has her number. This has nothing to do with me.’

The management of Doma United has officially announced the appointment of Deji Ayeni as the club’s new head coach ahead of the forthcoming 2026/27 campaign, as confirmed by a reliable source.

Often referred to as the Savannah Tigers, the side recently secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and is now looking to build on that achievement under Ayeni’s leadership.

Ayeni brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously taken charge of nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba. His coaching journey also includes stints with Sunshine Stars, Akwa United, and Crown FC, showcasing his deep familiarity with Nigerian top-flight football.

Upon signing his contract, the 45-year-old tactician expressed his excitement about the opportunity. He said, “It is a great honour to join this ambitious project. Doma United has demonstrated a strong commitment to success, and I am eager to collaborate with the players, staff, and supporters to realize our collective ambitions.”

The club’s hierarchy is optimistic that Ayeni’s appointment will bring strategic direction and stability to the team as they prepare for the challenges of the NPFL.

The Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba has been selected as the venue for the 2023 President Federation Cup finals. Both the men’s and women’s competitions will culminate at this location on Saturday, 11 July, as reported by DAILY POST.

In the men’s category, Ikorodu City is set to take on El-kanemi Warriors for the trophy. These two teams secured their spots in the final following victories over Nasarawa United and Wikki Tourists, respectively, during the semi-finals held on Wednesday.

For Ikorodu City, this marks a chance to claim their maiden title, while El-kanemi Warriors aim to secure their fourth championship. The winning side will earn a place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.

On the women’s side, the semi-final lineup has been confirmed with FC Robo Queens, Heartland Queens, Sunshine Queens, and Nasarawa Amazons advancing to the last four.

Brazilian football icon Cafu has omitted Cristiano Ronaldo from his list of the greatest players in history, instead selecting four legends who he believes have truly transformed the sport.

Speaking to the Spanish newspaper El Mundo following Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the World Cup, the former right-back was particularly impressed by Lionel Messi’s hat-trick performance.

Cafu stated that Messi, Ronaldinho, Diego Maradona, and Pelé stand above all others. He described Maradona as the embodiment of football artistry, and said the quartet have had a profound impact on the game.

“Maradona is the essence of football art, just like Messi, Pelé, and Ronaldinho. When I watch these unique and brilliant players, I truly admire them,” Cafu said.

“In my view, these four are equals and represent the four greatest players in history. They have fundamentally changed the sport and continue to do so.”

The comments have sparked debate among fans, given Ronaldo’s storied career and numerous accolades.

Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has voiced strong criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the Portugal national team during the 2026 World Cup. Scholes described the 41-year-old superstar as a ‘problem’ for manager Roberto Martinez, arguing that a player of that age should only be starting as a goalkeeper, not as a striker.

Ronaldo made history by appearing in his sixth World Cup, equaling Lionel Messi’s record, and captained Portugal in their opening group match against DR Congo. Despite a bright start with an early goal from Joao Neves, Portugal failed to secure a win, drawing 1-1 after Yoane Wissa equalized just before halftime. Ronaldo had a particularly poor first half, failing to create chances, take shots, complete a dribble, or win a duel.

Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes revealed he had previously asked Martinez off-camera if Ronaldo was a burden. ‘At 41 years of age, there’s only one position where a player that age should start, and that’s goalkeeper,’ Scholes said. He acknowledged Ronaldo’s goal-scoring ability and Portugal’s possession-based style but warned that in transition-heavy games, the veteran’s lack of mobility would be exposed.

Scholes, who played alongside Ronaldo at Manchester United for six years, expressed sympathy for Martinez, suggesting the forward would be far more effective as a late substitute. ‘For a 40- or 41-year-old to be playing centre-forward, I just don’t get it,’ he added. ‘You might get away with it at centre-half or goalkeeper, but not as a striker.’ He also contrasted Ronaldo’s performance with that of Lionel Messi, who scored a hat-trick for Argentina, and Kylian Mbappe, who netted twice, implying that Ronaldo would be frustrated by their achievements.

Scholes concluded that while Martinez publicly defends Ronaldo as ‘the best goalscorer in the world,’ deep down he must realize that the 41-year-old’s presence is harming the team. Portugal, as 2025 Nations League champions, are among the tournament favorites but now face pressure to advance from the group stage.