In recent football news, Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola has taken responsibility for Erling Haaland's recent drop in form, citing the need for the team to better utilize the star forward as they navigate through a particularly challenging season. In other transfer news, Manchester United looks set to keep a £190k-per-week star at Old Trafford with talks of a new deal nearing completion. This comes as the club also eyes a potential move for Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, hinting at a dynamic reshuffle should Marcus Rashford leave in January.

Transfer gossip continues to swirl around the Premier League, with Everton reported to be preparing a new contract for Jordan Pickford and PSG potentially offering Arsenal a chance to sign Kolo Muani. Chelsea, closely tailing Liverpool in the Premier League title race, is believed to be in a position to contend for the title, according to Blues manager Enzo Maresca, despite Manchester City still being seen as a significant competitor.

Aston Villa is on the verge of welcoming a new addition to their squad with a £6m+ deal agreed for a "quick gem," which marks the club's first signing of the winter window. Additionally, Napoli is reportedly targeting Arsenal's Ayden Heaven, who has an expiring contract, as they look to bolster their defensive lineup.

In social news from the football community, Manchester United star Diogo Dalot spent his Christmas Eve volunteering with the homeless in Manchester, a gesture that celebrates the spirit of giving back during the holiday season.