Advertisement
Ask Nigeria Header Logo

Latest bits across football and basketball

Photo of author

By Timothy Akintola

News on Derrick Rose, Solskjaer, Tosin Adarabioyo, Chido Obi-Martin and Wirtz.

Former MVP, Derrick Rose officially retires from professional basketball.

After 16 years in the NBA, former MVP Derrick Rose has announced his retirement. The Chicago native, selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2008 NBA draft, made his mark with the Chicago Bulls, where he spent seven years before moving between the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies. Rose’s career was derailed by injuries, most notably a torn ACL during the 2012 playoffs, which led to a series of lower leg issues. In a heartfelt tribute to basketball shared on social media, Rose expressed gratitude, calling the game his “first love.” At 22, Rose became the youngest MVP in NBA history, averaging 25 points and 7.7 assists in the 2010-11 season. The three-time All-Star finished his career with averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game.

Advertisement


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opens up on managing Man United again.

Former Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has expressed his willingness to return to the club if given the opportunity. Solskjaer, who led United from 2018 to 2021 before being dismissed, said he would “say yes every day of the week” if asked to return to Old Trafford. Despite being sacked following a string of poor results, the former Norway international achieved a second-place finish in the 2020/21 Premier League season. Speaking at the Oslo Business Forum, Solskjaer called United “family” but acknowledged the role is currently filled. Since leaving United, he has worked as a UEFA technical director and is also open to managing Norway after the 2026 World Cup. United is currently struggling, with a poor start to the season and a 1-1 Europa League draw against FC Twente.


Tosin Adarabioyo set to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria.

As Nigeria’s interim coach Augustine Eguavoen prepares to announce the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya in October, speculation surrounds Chelsea defender, Tosin Adarabioyo. Reports suggest that Tosin, born in England, is set to commit his international future to Nigeria. However, there has been no official confirmation from Eguavoen, making it unlikely that Tosin will feature in the upcoming match. Nigeria’s coaching staff is evaluating defensive options across Europe, looking to strengthen a backline led by veterans William Troost-Ekong and Semi Ajayi, whose combined age of 61 raises concerns about their pace. While experienced, they could be vulnerable against faster opponents. Should Tosin join the Super Eagles, his familiarity with teammates Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman would make his transition into the team smoother and bolster Nigeria’s defensive strength.

Advertisement


Chido Obi-Martin’s Manchester United move finally approved by the PL.

Manchester United’s lengthy wait for Premier League ratification on Chido Obi-Martin’s transfer has finally concluded successfully. United received confirmation this morning that the deal has been approved after a prolonged process. Obi-Martin, previously a prolific scorer for Arsenal’s Under-18s, had rejected new terms with the Gunners, opting instead for United after a private tour of their facilities. The 17-year-old, eligible to represent England, Denmark, or Nigeria, impressed with five hat-tricks in his last nine league matches for Arsenal’s Under-18s and had also scored 10 goals in a single game for their Under-16s. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the Premier League’s five-step process was completed on Friday. Having already passed a medical and agreed on personal terms, Obi-Martin shared a photo on Instagram of him shaking hands with United legend Eric Cantona, marking his move to Old Trafford.


Arsenal joins the list of European giants interested in Florian Wirtz.

According to new reports, Arsenal has reportedly intensified their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, according to sources in Germany. The 21-year-old has emerged as one of the Bundesliga’s standout players, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s domestic double last season. While Wirtz was linked with several top European clubs earlier in the summer, he decided to stay with Leverkusen for their Champions League campaign. However, Bild now reports that Wirtz is expected to leave next summer, with Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Manchester City all keen on securing his signature. Paris Saint-Germain has withdrawn from the race, making Arsenal serious contenders, with Mikel Arteta’s side reportedly “fully committed” to the move. Leverkusen is seeking €150 million (£124.8m) for Wirtz, though interested clubs are hopeful of negotiating a deal closer to €100 million (£83.2m).

Advertisement


Disclaimer

The content on AskNigeria.com is given for general information only and does not constitute a professional opinion, and users should seek their own legal/professional advice. There is data available online that lists details, facts and further information not listed in this post, please complete your own investigation into these matters and reach your own conclusion. Images included with this information are not real, they are AI generated and are used for decorative purposes only. Our images are not depicting actual events unless otherwise specified. AskNigeria.com accepts no responsibility for losses from any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of content contained in this website and/or other websites which may be linked to this website.

Advertisement