The timing of the Africa Cup of Nations played a decisive role in why Manchester United opted not to pursue Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, according to former first-team coach Benni McCarthy.

Osimhen had emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards after netting 26 league goals during the 2022–23 season, powering Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years.

McCarthy, who was part of the Old Trafford coaching setup under then manager Erik ten Hag, revealed he had been involved in striker recruitment discussions and viewed Osimhen as an ideal fit for the club.

However, the biennial scheduling of the Africa Cup of Nations — which often overlaps with the European club season — ultimately proved a significant obstacle.

Despite Osimhen initially topping the shortlist, concerns about his absence during international duty led United to explore alternative options.

The club instead moved to sign Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta for £72m in August 2023. The Danish forward went on to score 26 goals in 95 appearances before joining Napoli on loan last September.

Meanwhile, Osimhen’s career continued its upward trajectory. He was crowned African Footballer of the Year in 2023 and later joined Galatasaray on loan in September 2024, before completing a permanent move to the Turkish side last July.

Legal proceedings are steadily progressing in Nigeria following the tragic road accident that left British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua injured late last year.

The driver involved in the fatal crash has now appeared before a magistrates’ court in Ogun State, marking another step forward in the judicial process as authorities continue working toward clarity and accountability.

The accident occurred on 29 December along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, a major route in south-west Nigeria. Joshua sustained injuries in the collision and received medical treatment before being discharged from hospital just two days later, highlighting a positive turn in his personal recovery.

Tragically, members of his training team — personal trainer Latif Ayodele and strength coach Sina Ghami — lost their lives when their vehicle collided with a stationary lorry near Lagos.

The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, who was behind the wheel at the time of the incident, faces multiple charges including causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, operating a vehicle without due care, and driving without a valid licence.

At Wednesday’s hearing, the 46-year-old made his second court appearance. Prosecutors informed the court that additional time is required to finalise evidence preparation, reflecting ongoing efforts to ensure a thorough and transparent legal process.

The court subsequently adjourned proceedings until 13 March, allowing all parties time to prepare as the case continues to move forward.

Kayode has not yet entered a plea.

Raheem Sterling has left Chelsea by mutual consent after reaching an agreement to terminate his contract early, bringing an end to his three-and-a-half-year spell at Stamford Bridge in a move that offers clarity and opportunity for both player and club.

The 31-year-old England international still had 18 months remaining on his £325,000-a-week deal, but both sides agreed a settlement that allows Sterling to move on while enabling Chelsea to reduce their wage commitments. Sterling will receive a payout, though the figure is understood to be less than the more than £20m he would have earned had he remained for the duration of his contract.

Chelsea confirmed the decision in a statement, saying: “We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career.”

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 in a £47.5m transfer and went on to make 81 appearances for the club. While his time in west London included flashes of his trademark pace, movement and experience, he has not featured in a competitive match for Chelsea since May 2024.

In recent months, Sterling had been training separately with a group of players at the club’s Cobham training base after failing to secure a move during the summer transfer window. Despite that uncertainty, interest in the winger remained, with clubs including Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen exploring potential deals. A proposed move to Fulham was also discussed but ultimately did not materialise.

Sterling, who began his professional career at Liverpool and has won 13 major trophies across his career, is now focused on the next chapter. It is understood he would prefer to remain in London, but he is open to opportunities both in England and abroad as he looks to relaunch his career in a new environment.