Algeria Ligue 1 side, MC Oran, has appointed former Mali coach and Super Eagles coaching candidate Eric Chelle as their new head coach on a multi year contract.

The 46-year-old, a candidate for the Super Eagles coaching job, brings a wealth of experience after leading Mali at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

Chelle’s appointment at MC Oran marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career, and expectations are high as he takes charge of the club for the 2024/2025 season.

As the Super Eagles managerial position continues to linger, Chelle will now switch attentions to his new role.

FIFA has appointed Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb as its new head of women’s refereeing.

Steinhaus-Webb, a German native, takes up the job after holding the same role in the English game.

A former FIFA referee, she enjoyed an influential career that saw her become the first woman to take charge of a final at the Women’s World Cup and the women’s Olympic football tournament, as well as matches in the men’s Bundesliga. Altogether she officiated in nine FIFA competitions between 2008 and 2021.

In her new role, Steinhaus-Webb, who is married to English men’s referee boss Howard Webb, will oversee and drive further development of women’s refereeing at all levels, including across FIFA women’s competitions, in cooperation with FIFA’s member associations and the confederations.

“I’m thrilled to join FIFA and look forward to making a contribution to the steady growth of women’s refereeing,” Steinhaus-Webb said in a statement.

“FIFA has shown a consistent commitment to taking refereeing to the next level as an integral part of the game, and it’s an honour for me to apply my experience and to support female referees across the world.”

FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström commented: “FIFA remains committed to promoting the growth of the women’s game, and maximizing on the huge developmental opportunity it holds. Refereeing is of course a key part of that opportunity and bringing figures of the stature and experience of Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb will contribute significantly to this objective. I very much look forward to working with her in the years ahead.”

Pierluigi Collina, chairman of the FIFA referees committee, added: “Bibiana’s outstanding experience as a trailblazer of the game, coupled with her thorough understanding of the current challenges facing female referees, will help us massively to develop the next generation of elite female match officials.”

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, one of football’s greatest midfield maestros, has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than two decades.

Known for his vision, composure, and exceptional passing, Iniesta leaves behind a legacy that has inspired countless fans and players around the world.

Iniesta’s illustrious career is highlighted by his incredible achievements with both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

During his legendary career, Iniesta won a total of 9 La Liga titles, 4 Champions League trophies, and 6 Copa del Reys with Barcelona, cementing his place as one of the club’s all-time greats.

After over 20 years at Barcelona, Iniesta moved to Japan, where he continued to showcase his brilliance. His time at Vissel Kobe saw him claim a Japanese Championship, Cup, and Super Cup, adding yet more silverware to his already extensive collection.

After his successful tenure at Vissel Kobe, Andrés Iniesta briefly ventured into Middle Eastern football, signing with Emirates Club in the UAE in 2023, where he played for a season.

Throughout his career, Iniesta’s humility, skill, and dedication to the game earned him the respect of fans and players alike. His contributions to the sport, both domestically and internationally, will undoubtedly echo for years to come as he steps away from the game.