Wayne Rooney has quit his role as Plymouth Argyle's head coach after just seven months, after a poor sequence of defeats that saw the club wallow at the bottom of the Championship. His resignation was announced on December 31, 2024, after a nine-game losing run and a record of just four victories in 23 games during his tenure.

Rooney was signed to a three-year deal in May 2024, with both the team and its fans expecting great things. He was seen as a guy who might bring expertise and drive to Plymouth Argyle, particularly considering his successful playing career at Manchester United and as an England international. 

However, the realities of managing proved difficult for the former striker. When Rooney took over, he tried to promote a good football mentality at the club. Early excitement dissipated fast when outcomes did not meet expectations. 

The club struggled to establish form, with defensive flaws and a lack of offensive power becoming apparent. The combination of these troubles left Plymouth four points below safety in the Championship.

Rooney's record while at Plymouth includes the following:

Total matches: 23.

Wins: 4

Draws: Six.

Losses: thirteen.

Goal Difference: -29.

His last match as manager was a 2-0 loss against Oxford United, which heightened criticism of his leadership. Despite attempts to unify the squad and make tactical improvements, outcomes remained disappointing.

Plymouth Argyle issued a statement announcing Rooney's departure by mutual agreement. The club thanked him for his efforts but admitted that the results did not represent the hard work he and his team put in. 

In addition to Rooney, assistant coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland left. Rooney's goodbye statement expressed his gratitude to the board, staff, players, and fans. He remarked, "Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart," underlining the positive experiences he had during his short stint.

Following Rooney's departure, first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards were named interim managers as the squad prepared for their New Year's Day encounter against Bristol City. Before this appointment, Rooney's managing career encountered several problems. 

He previously played for Derby County and D.C. United, both of which were unsuccessful. His stint with Birmingham City ended with relegation fears after a dismal run of form. This recent loss raises concerns about his future in management and whether he can succeed elsewhere.

Rooney's exit from Plymouth Argyle is the latest chapter in his turbulent managerial career. While he came into the post with great expectations and extensive playing experience, the transfer to management has been tough. 

As Plymouth Argyle seeks to rebuild and establish stability under new leadership, Rooney will need to reflect on his experiences and plan his future steps in football management. 

The club's priority is now on finding a permanent successor who can lead them away from relegation and back to competitive form in the Championship.

As the 2024/25 football season begins, numerous European players have greatly improved their performances, demonstrating their potential and skill. Here, we highlight five exceptional players who have significantly improved their game this season.

Jhon Duran | Aston Villa

Position: forward.

League: Premier League.

John Duran, a key player for Aston Villa, has signed a long-term deal until 2030 after a strong start to the season. The Colombian striker has six goals in all competitions, five of which came as a substitute, showcasing his effectiveness off the bench. His incredible goal-scoring pace of one per 39 minutes demonstrates his effectiveness, as he has already equaled his tally from the previous season in far fewer games.

Duran's ability to convert opportunities is excellent; he has a shooting conversion percentage of 24.3% and has scored almost twice his Expected Goals total. His performances have garnered parallels to top attackers, as he is second in minutes-per-goal ratio among Premier League players with numerous goals, behind only Erling Haaland. His contributions have been critical in close games, and his prospects continue to excite fans and commentators alike.

Ayoze Pérez, Villarreal

Position: forward.

League: La Liga.

Ayoze Pérez, who joined Villarreal from Leicester City, is now one of the leading scorers in La Liga this season. With six goals, he is now second in league scoring. His scoring rate has skyrocketed, averaging one goal per 69 minutes this season, up from nine goals in 31 games last year.

Pérez's comeback may be ascribed to a more prominent position in Villarreal's offensive formation, where he thrives under pressure. His ability to locate space and close clinical opportunities has made him a vital contributor to the club. As Villarreal strives to qualify for European competition, Pérez's performance will be essential to its success.

Brennan Johnson, Tottenham Hotspur

Position: Winger League: Premier League.

Brendan Johnson has significantly improved his performance for Tottenham Hotspur this season, making him a valuable player. Johnson, who struggled with consistency last season, scoring just five goals in 32 league games, has already scored in seven straight matches for club and country this season.

His improved confidence and ability to impact games have been clear, and he plays an important part in Tottenham's offensive approach. Johnson's speed and dribbling abilities enable him to generate chances for himself and his teammates, making him an important part of the Spurs' championship pursuit.

Omar Marmoush, Eintracht Frankfurt

Position: forward.

League: Bundesliga.

Omar Marmoush is the Bundesliga's top scorer, with eight goals in six matches. This is a huge improvement from the previous season when he scored 18 goals in 29 games.

His current form has him averaging two goal contributions each game. Marmoush's ability to routinely score goals has made him one of Germany's most entertaining attackers. His flexibility enables him to play in a variety of offensive roles, making him a nightmare for defenders. As Eintracht Frankfurt strives for European competitiveness, Marmoush's efforts will be critical.

Bradley Barcola, Paris Saint-Germain

Position: Winger League: Ligue 1.

Improvement: Following Kylian Mbappé's departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Bradley Barcola has emerged as the team's top scorer. Barcola has six goals so far this season, averaging one every 78 minutes. His efforts have been critical in sustaining PSG's competitive edge, amid worries about their form after the loss of their top player. 

Barcola's ability to adjust to additional responsibilities demonstrates his development as a player. His speed and technical ability allow him to generate scoring chances while also helping defensively when required. As PSG aims to restore its Ligue 1 domination, Barcola's contribution will be critical.

These five players have shown amazing progress and adaptability in European football this season. Their improved performances assist not just their teams but also add to the general excitement of the leagues in which they participate. 

As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to observe how these guys grow and affect their teams' fortunes. Their experiences highlight not just individual skill, but also the value of opportunity and assistance in competitive circumstances.

Atletico Madrid suffered another blow in their La Liga season, tying 1-1 with Real Betis at Estadio Benito Villamarín. This encounter represented the continuation of the team's troubles, as they had now drawn two straight games, creating doubts about their championship chances.

Atletico seized the lead early in the game thanks to Antoine Griezmann's goal, which took advantage of Betis' defensive blunder. Borja Iglesias, who scored with a well-placed shot from within the box, quickly equalized for the hosts. Despite repeated attempts to retake the lead, Atletico were prevented by Betis' tenacious defense and goalkeeper Rui Silva's outstanding performance.

Atletico's injury issues added to the match's drama. Memphis Depay, a key player, was sidelined with a thigh injury incurred while on international service, creating a huge vacancy in their offensive lineup. Coach Diego Simeone relied on Álvaro Morata and Ángel Correa to replace Depay, but both struggled against Betis' well-organized defense.

Atletico's defense also came under fire. José María Giménez broke the club record for most fouls committed in a single match. This not only reflects individual shortcomings, but also reveals bigger flaws with the team's defensive system, which has been erratic all season.

Simeone sought to change his tactics throughout the game, adjusting formations and making changes to infuse new energy into the side. However, these alterations did not provide the anticipated effects, as Atletico struggled to generate clear-cut opportunities in the latter minutes of the game. Atletico has struggled with clinical finishing this season, dropping points in critical games.

With the tie, Atletico remained in third position in La Liga, behind only Real Madrid and Barcelona. The club will need to recover fast as they prepare for future games that might decide the season. The return of injured players will be vital; but, with Depay anticipated to remain sidelined for many weeks, Simeone must devise alternate tactics to shore up his offensive alternatives.

Fans were frustrated by the team's failure to capture three points against a mid-table opponent like as Betis. The rising pressure on Simeone is apparent, with fans demanding more regular performances and outcomes. If Atletico fails to solve its defensive flaws and enhance its offensive effectiveness, it risks slipping farther behind in the championship chase.

While Atletico Madrid avoided loss against Real Betis, the tie serves as another reminder of their season-long problems. With injuries piling up and tactical modifications failing to produce results, the club faces an uphill struggle to recover their standing as La Liga championship contenders.

Andrés Iniesta expresses his desire to return to Barcelona in an emotional retirement speech.

Andrés Iniesta recently announced his retirement in an emotional ceremony in Barcelona, following a remarkable 24-year career. Surrounded by family, friends, and former teammates, he expressed gratitude and acknowledged the bittersweet nature of this farewell. Iniesta said, "I never thought this day would come," emphasizing that his tears were of pride and joy rather than sadness.

Iniesta's career has been defined by spectacular successes, including 32 trophies with Barcelona and key moments with the Spanish national team, such as scoring the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final.

His playing style was distinguished by precise passing and exceptional vision, making him a key figure in Barcelona's dominance under managers such as Pep Guardiola.

During his retiring speech, Iniesta reflected on his modest origins in Fuentealbilla and recounted meaningful tales from his career. He emphasized the effect of several coaches during his career and indicated a desire to continue involved with football. "Soccer ends in this phase, but the game continues," he said.

What stuck out was Iniesta's declared desire to return to Barcelona in a coaching role. He said, "Those who made their mark on this club should be here," expressing his desire to contribute to the team's future.

Iniesta's dedication to studying and evolving as a coach displays his profound passion for football and desire to develop future players.

Iniesta's retirement is the end of an era for Barcelona and Spanish football. However, many supporters feel this will not be his last appearance on the pitch—albeit in a different position.

His coaching career has already started, and there is much curiosity regarding how he will transfer his playing prowess into coaching success.

Andrés Iniesta's retirement is more than a goodbye; it is the beginning of a new chapter in football. His reputation as one of the greatest midfielders will survive, and his hopes to return to Barcelona as a coach show that his impact on the game is far from ended.

Enzo Maresca, the Chelsea coach has dismissed talks of his club winning the English Premier League, saying they are not ready for the title win.

Chelsea is in the fourth position following table leaders Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal. 

Domestically, they have not done badly so far, winning four matches, with one draw, but lost to the raining champions, Manchester City in the opening match of the campaign season.

Maresca however believes that his club needs enough time to stabilize, even though they have been highly estimated to win the league. 

The tactician said, "I really don’t think we can compete with Man City or Arsenal now. We are not ready".

Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson have both recorded 10 goals to the Blues EPL campaign.

The 22 years old Palmer, have to his credit, a record-breaking four goals in the first half in their 4-2 win over Brighton at the Stamford Bridge.