The 30-person shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d'Or includes six players who assisted England in making it to the Euro 2024 championship. The following players are vying for the coveted honor, which will be given to the finest male football player in 2024: forwards Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer, midfielders Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice, and captain Harry Kane. The winger for Barcelona and Spain, Lamine Yamal, who just turned 17 in July, is also a contender. England advanced to the Euro 2024 final, but on July 14 in Berlin, they lost to Spain 2-1. Eight players from Manchester City and Arsenal—who placed first and second in the Premier League, respectively—have combined to be nominated.

Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner who won the award in 2023 and plays forward for Inter Miami and Argentina, is not included on this list. Neither Messi, 37, nor Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, who has won five times, have been on the list of nominees since 2003.

A first-time winner is assured because Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, the two other past recipients who are currently active, were not included on the shortlist. A jury of journalists from each of the top 100 nations in the Fifa men's global ranking casts their votes for the award. Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United are the nominees for the Kopa Trophy, which is given to the finest men's young player of the year. Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa, who took home the Yashin Trophy as the finest goalkeeper the previous year, was once again considered for the honor.

Pep Guardiola, meanwhile, was nominated for men's coach of the year following Manchester City's second Premier League title. On October 28, there will be an event in Paris to announce the winners.

Jude Bellingham, a Real Madrid and England player Ruben Dias, a Manchester City and Portugal native Phil Foden, Manchester City, and England Federico Valverde of Real Madrid and Uruguay Emiliano Martinez, both with Aston Villa and Argentina Erling Haaland of Manchester City and Norway Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao and Spain) Granit Xhaka (Bayer Leverkusen and Switzerland) Artem Dovbyk (Roma and Ukraine) Real Madrid and former Germany player Toni Kroos Vinicius Jr. of Real Madrid and Brazil Dani Olmo (Barcelona and Spain) Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany) Arsenal's and Norway's Martin Odegaard Mats Hummels, a free agent from Germany Rodri (Manchester City and Spain)

Harry Kane (England and Bayern Munich) Declan Rice (England and Arsenal) Vitinha (Portugal and Paris St-Germain) Cole Palmer (England and Chelsea) Dani Carvajal (Spain and Real Madrid) Lamine Yamal (Spain and Barcelona) Bukayo Saka (England and Arsenal) Hakan Calhanoglu (Turkey and Inter Milan) William Saliba (France and Arsenal) Kylian Mbappe (France and Real Madrid) Lautaro Martinez (Argentina and Inter Milan) Ademola Lookman (Nigeria and Atalanta) Antonio Rudiger (Germany and Real Madrid) Alejandro Grimaldo (Spain and Bayer Leverkusen)

Financially speaking, it looks like a brilliant move on the part of the North Londoners, because rumor has it that they will only be covering £100k of the Englishman's £325k weekly salary, with the Blues covering the remaining sum. The reason the Gunners seem to have gotten such a good deal in this regard seems to be that the Pensioners have been looking for a way to get him out of the club for the remainder of the campaign after the player's statement ahead of the West Londoners' opening game of the season a few weeks ago and the fallout that followed. This has presented Edu Gaspar and Co. with a fantastic market opportunity.

But more than just the money might make this a great deal for the Premier League runners-up from the previous season since the former Manchester City star is a wonderful player when he plays at his best.

For instance, he made 339 appearances for City scored 131 goals, and contributed 73 assists, which works out to a goal participation rate of once per 1.66 games. This is an impressive feat given that he accomplished this during a seven-season span.

Furthermore, despite not playing at the highest level at Stamford Bridge, he has still managed to score 19 goals and dish out 12 assists in 81 games, which translates to an average of one goal per 2.61 games, which isn't too awful.

The official Arsenal team for the next Champions League campaign has been unveiled by UEFA. This season, the competition will feature 36 teams instead of 32 thanks to the adoption of the so-called "Swiss model." To ensure that every team plays at least eight games, a league phase has been established in place of the former group stage system. Every team in the competition will play one another; instead, matchups are decided by a draw that is seeded by UEFA.

Arsenal found out who they'll be playing last month. The Gunners will play Internazionale at the San Siro and Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium to begin their European campaign.

Before the traditional knockout phases start, Arteta's team has to play Shakhtar Donetsk (H), Atalanta (A), Dinamo Zagreb (H), Sporting CP (A), AS Monaco (H), and, ultimately, Girona (A). Arsenal will be aiming to persevere and emerge as the inaugural Champions League champions.

The manager of the Gunners, who is desperate to win some hardware, has included some unexpected players in his team. Tommy Setford, who joined Arsenal from Ajax in the summer, David Raya, and Neto are the three goalkeepers that Arteta has chosen, as disclosed by UEFA. William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and, in a rather surprising selection, Kieran Tierney—who played on loan at Real Sociedad last season—are the nine defenders that the Spaniard has selected.

The Premier League record of the Englishman speaks for itself, even though some are skeptical of his coming. He was a surprise addition on deadline day.

The day after the transfer window closed, Arsenal's pursuit of an attacking addition this summer was officially announced, ending months of speculation. Sterling would join the team on a season-long loan from Chelsea.

Aliko Dangote, the president of Dangote Group, has explained why the first Premium Motor Spirit—also referred to as gasoline—sample from his refinery was clearer than the gasoline that is already in use. Speaking at a live stream from his refinery in Lagos State's Ibeju-Lekki neighborhood, Dangote emphasized that cleaner gasoline is better for the environment and may help lessen health risks related to contaminated petroleum products.

He mentioned that the new gasoline will shield engines from harm caused by conventional gasoline's lack of clarity. "This is the gasoline sample," he declared. It may appear to be a different color, but that is the case. You will now possess a genuine and high-quality product.

"I'm sure Nigerians haven't seen this color of diesel before," Dangote added about the diesel's color. "We refer to this as Euro-5 diesel. Less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of sulfur are present in it. This will extend the lifespan of engines, generators, and automobiles. "The environment and public health will not be jeopardized," he emphasized again.

The German strategist Bruno Labbadia has been named the new Super Eagles coach, effective immediately, according to a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation. Tuesday morning, Labbadia's appointment was announced by the NFF's X handle, which tweeted under the hashtag #thenff.

The release said, "The German tactician Bruno Labbadia has agreed to become the Head Coach of Nigeria's senior men's national team, the Super Eagles," according to the Nigeria Football Federation. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the general secretary of the federation, stated that "the NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development sub-committee to appoint Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles."

Following the resignation of Finidi George, who was named the Eagles' coach in May 2024, Labbadia takes over as the 37th head coach of the Super Eagles. However, the squad finished fifth in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with three points due to his inability to score convincing victories in two important games while in charge.

Before suffering a shocking 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in Abidjan, the Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa.

Nigerians are facing further economic hardship and calls for a statewide demonstration against President Bola Tinubu's administration are growing. In response, the Federal Government has asked for more time and assured the people that the problem is being handled urgently.

This message was delivered on Wednesday in Abuja by Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, following a Federal Executive Council meeting called by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Idris stated that the government is dedicated to addressing all concerns in a way that preserves peace and stability throughout the nation and referred to the planned protests as a "family matter."

The Minister emphasized that the administration is concentrated on putting solutions in place to lessen the burdens while also acknowledging the justifiable concerns of the populace.

He underlined that during this time of economic transition, communication, and tolerance are crucial.

Following the private meeting, Idris addressed reporters and stated, "We came together to discuss." As you can see, several of the ministers are present, and this is taking place at the SGF's office rather than the Council Chambers. We've talked about matters of national importance, and since we're all working for Nigeria, we think and hope that the country will once again be great.

"There won't be any sleepers. The people who are inciting unrest and calling for protests are Nigerians; we are all Nigerians, as are our brothers, sisters, and other individuals in positions of power, including ministers, the president, and all of us. This is therefore a family issue. This is a family problem in Nigeria, and we are all carefully considering it hoping that peace will ultimately win. 

When asked if there had been any communication between the government and the protest organizers and stakeholders, Idris replied that there has always been constant communication.

"This is not an odd circumstance. There has been constant engagement. Every major stakeholder has had multiple meetings with the president. Along with other government employees, I have been interacting with stakeholders and other important parties.

"We will keep engaging because it is in Nigeria's best interests to do so. We understand that this is the only nation we have, and ultimately, Nigeria would benefit from this for all of us, he said.

In response to claims made by a few prominent Nigerians, such as Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN, that the protests must continue, Idris stated that the senior attorney had a democratic right to voice his opinions.

"Falana is a unique individual. Since we live in a democracy, everyone is free to express their opinions. This is a democratic scenario, and the demonstrators are also Nigerians. I keep emphasizing that we are all Nigerians and that we are all working for Nigeria, but let me just point out that yesterday, Mr. President stated that there was no need for protests and that everyone should calm down.

"A lot is occurring, Nigeria will continue to advance, and we think that the government that emerges will be beneficial to the country. We don't believe that any kind of protest is necessary; instead, we are calling for serenity and a peaceful solution to any problem.

You are allowed to post anything you want online, but the government is adamant that since we are all Nigerians, we must maintain our composure and be patient. Suffice it to say, let's give peace a chance. Everybody is working around the clock, including the president and his ministers.

As I mentioned yesterday, the President is listening to all of us, and he has a message for all Nigerians: please calm down and allow him some more time. All of their requests and entreaties will be granted," he continued.

Among the ministers present were Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), and Nyesom Wike (FCT).

Other notables included Bello Matawalle (Defense), David Umahi (Works), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), and Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA).

Obiageli Ezekwesili, the former minister of education, has urged President Bola Tinubu to start an impartial audit of the NNPC and Dangote Refinery transactions right away.

"I kept quiet about the Dangote refinery-NNPC saga because I believe that evidence should always guide our opinion," the speaker stated. But as more and more details began to emerge from both sides, it is reasonable to assume that something mysterious has occurred and that it must be thoroughly investigated to hold the public accountable. Additionally, urgently. In the full view of the local and global investment community, how can a project that by definition became a "national interest project" be tarnished by such a serious and embarrassing controversy?

The Special Advisor on Communication and Strategy to the President, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, has been given 72 hours by Peter Obi, the Labour Party's (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, to pay N5 billion in damages and issue a public apology for libel and defamation that will be published in four national newspapers, or face legal action.

Obi insisted that Mr. Onanuga take back the outrageous accusation that he was connected to the August large demonstration.

Remember how the Presidential Spokesman asserted on July 20, 2024, using his X handle @aonanuga1956, that Obi should be held accountable for the chaos and that Peter Ob's supporters were the ones preparing mayhem in Nigeria.

The allegation, which was widely publicized in social and mainstream media and read by many both inside and outside the country, maligned Obi's hard-earned reputation as a man who indulges in violence when all of his prior experiences demonstrate that he abhors violence even in the face of extreme provocation. Obi made this claim through his attorney, Chief Alex Ejesieme, SAN of the MADIBA Chambers.

"Our client believes that the publication was a planned scheme to disparage, mock, shame, and embarrass him in the eyes of every rational member of society," the legal representative wrote.

The letter went on to say that since well-wishers from all over the world have flooded Obi with messages of shock, the accusation may have succeeded in its petty goal.

"Despite being referred to as "Okwute" or "the Rock," our client has suffered significant emotional harm as a result of the scandalous and insulting publication, especially considering his exceptional career management in both public and private life. As a result, we have our clients' mandate that you withdraw the statement published in the publication and offer him an unconditional apology within 72 hours of receiving this letter in at least four national newspapers, including your verified X"@aonanuga1956.

The head of Glorious Word Power Ministries, Reverend Isaac Owusu-Bempah, has claimed that US President Joe Biden sent a team to ask for help in the 2024 presidential race.

During a sermon on Sunday, July 14, 2024, Rev. Owusu-Bempah revealed that Biden's delegates visited him. He told them to return on Friday, July 19, 2024, so they could continue the conversation.

Despite Biden's suggestion, Owusu-Bempah stated that she preferred to back former President Donald Trump in the forthcoming election. He brought up the heated climate of today's politics while referring to a purported assault on Trump. "Politics has turned violent these days. Trump was shot, I've heard, but he survived. I'm not sure why they want to assassinate Trump, but do you recall when I noticed that they had taken the key away from him and that he would have to lose for Joe Biden to show up?" stated Owusu-Bempah?

He went on to say that his choice to endorse Trump is not a prophecy but rather a personal one. "It happened, and he's returning now. I promised he would come back, and he is returning to compete. I'm going to pray for him instead of saying anything this time. I hope he comes out on top. This is not a prophecy; this is my endorsement of him." In response to Biden's request, Owusu-Bempah clarified that, despite his earlier remarks, he will continue to pray for Biden to win the election.

"Joe Biden's supporters have approached me, telling me that I ought to do all within my power to help Joe Biden gain the will to win the election. Joe Biden has heard about what I just stated regarding Trump. Since this is problematic, I will also pray for Joe Biden." He acknowledged that at first, he had overlooked Biden's delegation. He spoke about how, while he prayed for both candidates, he recalled their desire. "Sending prayers to Trump and Joe Biden. Even the fact that Joe Biden sent his emissaries to me has slipped my mind. I invited them to visit on Friday. I had forgotten that Joe Biden had sent his staff to visit me when they arrived, and the pastor was in my home."

The appeal came from the AAC in a press release issued by Kayode Babayomi, the party's Oyo Chairman, in response to Makinde's comments following the recent Supreme Court ruling that maintained financial autonomy for all 774 councils in Nigeria.  The African Action Congress (AAC) has called for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde's immediate resignation for openly opposing the financial autonomy of local governments.

The appeal came from the AAC in a press release issued by Kayode Babayomi, the party's Oyo Chairman, in response to Makinde's comments following the recent Supreme Court ruling that maintained financial autonomy for all 774 councils in Nigeria.

Governor Makinde had declared that the Federal Republic of Nigeria's constitution and the Supreme Court decision giving local government councils authority conflicted.     He had emphasized that, by the 1999 Constitution, the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) would keep depositing local government funds into the States/Local Governments Joint Account.

The AAC Chairman responded to the governor's comments on the matter by stating that Makinde was concerned that the ruling from the Supreme Court would prevent him from purportedly diverting funds intended for the state's councils. "Makinde's concern about local government financial autonomy demonstrates his administration's lack of transparency and corruption," the author stated. If Makinde's corrupt style of governing conflicts with the sovereignty of the local government, he ought to step down from office. The African Action Congress was not shocked by Makinde's response on the day the Supreme Court authorized local governments to have their finances. Makinde has been seen shouting in the media in the past, which is understandable given how his government lacks accountability and openness in its operations.

The money from the local government is Makinde's headache. He is aware that the populace at large will start pressuring their local officials to provide better leadership. Makinde squandered taxpayer funds to set up a selection procedure for the most recent local government elections because he fears being exposed, but it's too late for him. Makinde is determined to thwart any efforts by the local government, as he is aware that this is where the majority of their funding originates from.

His administration is opaque and unaccountable, prioritizing media manipulation and disinformation over sound policymaking. He ought to obey the ruling and adhere to all legal procedures.   "Any local government kangaroo committee that tries to mislead the good people of Oyo State will not be allowed to continue." Oyo State's citizens are fully aware of the benefits of democracy they stand to gain if they can hold the elected chairman and council members responsible. Makinde needs to follow the law and quit tampering with funds allocated to the local government.