Former Udinese manager Fabio Cannavaro has been named the new head coach of Croatian giants Dinamo Zagreb, just months after parting ways with Serie A side Udinese at the end of last season.

Cannavaro replaces Nenad Bjelica and faces the challenge of revitalizing a team currently sitting third in the league standings, trailing Rijeka and Hajduk Split by seven points.

The former Juventus and Real Madrid star will officially take charge on January 3, when he joins the team for their mid-season preparations.

Dinamo Zagreb announced the appointment in a statement:
“Fabio Cannavaro is the new coach of the first team of GNK Dinamo. That decision of the Management Board and the sports director was supported by the club president and the Executive Board tonight at the 15th session of the Executive Board.

“The new coach will join the first team at the gathering on January 3, when he will be officially presented.

“We congratulate Mr. Cannavaro on his new position and wish him the best of luck and success on the Dinamo bench.”

Cannavaro, who previously managed Benevento, Al Nassr, and Guangzhou Evergrande, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Fans will be eager to see how the World Cup-winning captain translates his leadership skills to success on the pitch for Dinamo Zagreb.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted that his position at the club is “in danger” as their poor run of form continues.

United suffered a 2-0 defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day, marking their third consecutive loss. Since Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag during the November international break, the team has endured a difficult period, losing five of their last seven games.

Despite the limited time he has had to work with the squad, Amorim recognizes the high stakes that come with managing a club of United’s stature.

“The manager of Manchester United can never, no matter what, be comfortable,” Amorim stated. “I know that if we don’t win, regardless of whether they pay the buyout [for me] or not, every manager is in danger. That is the job, and I understand that.”

Amorim also acknowledged the challenges of his brief tenure, saying, “You can argue that I have been here one month and I’ve had four training sessions, but we are not winning. That is the reality, and I’m quite comfortable with that.”

As the pressure mounts, Amorim faces the challenge of turning United’s fortunes around in the weeks to come.

Nigerian defender Ola Aina has been turning heads in the English Premier League, earning a well-deserved spot in the Team of the Week for his stellar performance during Nottingham Forest’s 2-0 victory over Brentford on Saturday.

The 27-year-old showcased his attacking prowess by netting Forest’s opening goal, a moment that set the tone for the Tricky Trees’ triumph. This marked Aina’s second goal of the season, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and impactful player.

Aina’s inclusion in the Team of the Week comes as no surprise to Forest fans, who have witnessed his consistency and dedication on the pitch. With 17 league appearances under his belt this season, the Nigeria international has been a cornerstone of Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad.

Not only has he been a standout performer in matches, but Aina also claimed Nottingham Forest’s Player of the Month accolade in November, a testament to his hard work and influence on the team.

As Forest continues to climb the league table, Aina’s brilliance remains a key ingredient in their success. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as he aims to keep his momentum and make an even greater impact this season.

Virgil van Dijk has stated that there is "no deadline" for resolving his contract situation, even as his current Liverpool deal approaches its end.

The Netherlands international’s contract is set to expire at the conclusion of the season, allowing him to negotiate with overseas clubs starting January 1. However, reports suggest the 33-year-old defender is keen to remain at Anfield.

“There is no deadline at all. We will see what the future brings. Is there an update? No,” Van Dijk told reporters.

Van Dijk is among three key Liverpool players with contracts nearing their final six months, alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah.

Salah, who recently climbed to fourth on Liverpool’s all-time scoring list with 229 goals, continues to shine. The Egyptian forward netted twice in Liverpool’s emphatic 6-3 victory over Tottenham, bringing his season total to 18 goals (15 in the Premier League) and 15 assists.

Reflecting on Salah's impact, Van Dijk praised the 32-year-old’s consistency and professionalism, hoping he can deliver his best season yet for Liverpool, who currently lead the Premier League by four points.

“The numbers speak for themselves,” Van Dijk said. “He’s a very special athlete. He’s done amazingly for the club, and hopefully he can play his best season ever for the club, stay important with his goals and assists, and be clinical.

“He’s a professional. We’ve been there; he’s been there, so onto the next game. And next season? I don’t know.”