It's the fourth straight Premier League game where Eberechi Eze has been left on the bench by Mikel Arteta, a move that has started to raise questions about whether the Arsenal manager trusts their biggest summer signing.

Arsenal and Aston Villa secured wins as the Premier League top-of-the-table battles continue to be tense, with Manchester City failing to beat Chelsea in the Etihad, despite the visitors having a debutant as interim coach.

Actions resume fully with the first gameweek of 2026 as the Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the Ligue 1 kick off where they left off, although the English league had concluded a couple of previous gameweek actions on New Year's Eve.

The ongoing African Cup of Nations in Morocco has received widespread publicity, especially with the sons and daughters of the soil in diaspora attending the games to support their countries through their parents.

Arsenal endured a host of misfortunes when they played Aston Villa at the start of December. From missing their star defenders to having to field a half-fit Leandro Trossard, and having to take off Bukayo Saka due to the risk of a second yellow card, it was a difficult afternoon for Mikel Arteta and his boys.

Almost a similar dilemma to that of Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, but the North Londoners have a bit of ruggedness, especially in defence, as well as experience, because they've been here before.

Not many actions this weekend in the top European leagues with the majority already closed for the calendar year, and only the English and Italian leagues with actions in the coming days.

Super Eagles of Nigeria kick off their African Cup of Nations campaign on Tuesday evening in a dominant display against Taifa Stars of Tanzania, but could only secure a narrow 2-1 win in Fes, Morocco.