Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq has expressed his support for the team’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, and is optimistic about his success in the role.

Chelle was appointed as the Super Eagles’ head coach earlier this month, a decision that has sparked criticism directed at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Despite the backlash, Sadiq is confident in the 47-year-old’s ability to lead the team effectively.

“You can see what he did in the last AFCON. Everyone thought Mali was one of the favorites,” Sadiq told Sporty TV.

“You can see how they played. They were so good, but they got knocked out in the quarterfinals because, sometimes, it’s not the best team that wins.

“But I can tell you, I watched a lot of Mali’s games because I have a teammate there. You can see how they play, and it’s clear the coach (Chelle) has a lot of great ideas.”

Chelle’s impressive work with Mali during the previous AFCON has given Sadiq confidence that the coach can bring similar success to the Super Eagles.

Cyriel Dessers has expressed his intention to remain at Rangers beyond the winter transfer window despite speculation about his future.

The Nigerian international began the season as Rangers’ first-choice striker but has since lost his spot to Hamza Igamane.

Dessers has been linked with a return to Italy, with reports suggesting interest from Cagliari and Empoli. Spanish club Leganes is also reportedly keen on signing the former Feyenoord forward.

In a recent interview, Dessers acknowledged plans to discuss his status at the club with senior officials. However, the 30-year-old revealed that no such talks have taken place yet.

“No talks at all. I don’t mind that. I try to focus on the football and the things that are happening on the pitch,” Dessers told the Daily Record.

“Those are the things that I can control. And like Sunday at Tannadice, I’m just happy to be out there with the guys, fighting for the points and being important.

“That’s what I want. There’s a lot of unfinished business at Rangers for me. That’s why I kept pushing in the last weeks—in the gym, in training, and in the minutes that you get.”

Despite his recent challenges, Dessers has had an impressive season, scoring 18 goals across all competitions under manager Philippe Clement.

Danilo has parted ways with Juventus, with both the Brazil defender and the Serie A club confirming on Monday that his contract was terminated by mutual agreement.

“Danilo Luiz da Silva and Juventus have parted ways after five and a half years together, following a mutual termination of the player’s contract,” the club announced in a statement.

The 33-year-old departs Juventus after 213 appearances, during which he won one Serie A title, two Italian Cups, and one Italian Super Cup.

According to Italian media, Danilo is set to return to Brazil, signing a two-year deal with Flamengo. His contract with Juventus was originally set to expire at the end of the season.

“I knew this day would come sooner or later, but you’re never ready to say goodbye,” Danilo wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post.

Danilo’s departure follows a challenging period, including losing his captaincy to Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli after the arrival of Thiago Motta as coach during the summer.

Meanwhile, Portugal defender Renato Veiga arrived in Turin on Monday to undergo a medical ahead of completing a loan move from Chelsea. This comes as Juventus deals with the loss of Danilo’s compatriot Gleison Bremer, who is sidelined for the season with a knee injury.

Juventus currently sit fifth in Serie A, just two points shy of the Champions League spots, and are preparing to face Benfica in Europe’s top club competition on Wednesday.