Popular television host, Oseni Rufai, has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for choosing to withdraw peacefully after workers staged a protest at his office on Monday. The incident occurred in Abuja when employees of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) gathered to express dissatisfaction over unresolved welfare concerns. The situation became tense after demonstrators reportedly pursued the minister’s convoy during the protest. Footage circulating across social media platforms captured moments where visibly agitated workers ran after a vehicle believed to be transporting Wike. The protesters chanted various slogans while drawing attention to lingering issues affecting their employment conditions. Earlier in the day, the aggrieved workers, with the backing of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), had assembled at the National Industrial Court in Abuja. The action formed part of an ongoing indefinite strike, during which they demanded the minister’s removal and the settlement of outstanding financial obligations. Eyewitnesses at the scene disclosed that placards displayed by the protesters carried inscriptions such as “Wike must go!!”, “Abuja no be Rivers”, “Pay promotion arrears”, “Enough is Enough”, and “No working tools.” These messages reflected the depth of frustration among the workers. According to the protesters, the industrial action was triggered by persistent welfare challenges. These include five months of unpaid salaries, delayed promotion benefits stretching over several years, and unsatisfactory working environments that have continued without resolution. Reacting during The Morning Show, Oseni Rufai acknowledged that while he may not personally align with Wike’s political style, he found the minister’s response commendable. He explained that the situation could have escalated had force been deployed. Oseni noted that the minister could have opted for a show of strength by dispersing the crowd through security intervention, which might have resulted in chaos. He emphasized that similar scenarios in the country have often degenerated into disorder once crowd control measures are applied. According to him, confirmation that Wike exited the premises quietly through an alternative route demonstrated restraint. Oseni stressed that such a decision helped prevent what could have become a far more severe confrontation. Addressing the verbal expressions used by protesters, including accusations and chants, Oseni described them as typical elements of protest behavior. However, he maintained that such language was unnecessary, even though it commonly occurs during demonstrations.
The Founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, has expressed strong confidence that Nigeria can experience positive transformation if its citizens choose to believe in God and follow His will faithfully. Pastor Kumuyi made this statement while addressing journalists during a press briefing held on Tuesday in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. He emphasized that God remains faithful to His promises and continues to fulfill the expectations of those who patiently wait on Him with genuine faith. According to the respected cleric, the present challenges facing individuals and the nation should not lead to discouragement, as God is still fully capable and willing to reveal His power in the lives of His people. He reassured believers that divine intervention has not ceased and that God remains consistent in His actions across generations. Pastor Kumuyi explained that God has provided firm assurances through His word, stressing that everything the Lord has accomplished in the past can still be done again today. He described the coming manifestation as a fresh and renewed anointing that will break every form of bondage and hardship confronting believers and the nation at large. He confidently stated that God has never failed His people and will not begin to do so now, assuring that expectations anchored in faith will surely be realized. The General Superintendent further encouraged individuals to actively use the spiritual authority he described as keys given by Jesus Christ to believers. According to him, these divine keys empower Christians to confront and command negative situations affecting their personal lives, families, and communities. He pointed out that many people overlook the authority God has already placed in their hands through Christ. Referring to scriptural teachings, Pastor Kumuyi explained that Jesus granted believers the keys of the kingdom of heaven, giving them the authority to bind and loose on earth with corresponding impact in heaven. He stressed that when believers exercise this authority correctly, heaven responds accordingly. Pastor Kumuyi further reminded believers of Christ’s declaration that anyone who believes in Him will carry out the same works He did. He emphasized that this power is not symbolic but practical and available for daily life, adding that families who actively exercise this spiritual authority can significantly reduce the moral decline currently affecting society. Despite the clear assurances found in the scriptures, Pastor Kumuyi expressed concern that even some church leaders occasionally allow doubt to weaken their faith and commitment. He described this hesitation as a major obstacle to national and spiritual progress. He concluded by stating that meaningful change in Nigeria is achievable if believers genuinely trust God and act on His word. According to him, the anointing of God has the power to break every yoke, and this responsibility does not lie with the youth or those engaging in moral decadence alone. Rather, it rests in the hands of believers who must pray, speak with authority, and decree positive change. He affirmed that when this is done, God’s manifestation will be evident in the nation.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that he remains willing to engage in dialogue with workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) who recently embarked on an industrial action. Speaking on Tuesday, Wike made it clear that while he is open to discussions, attempts at blackmail or intimidation by the protesting workers will not succeed. According to him, dialogue must be genuine and free from coercive tactics. This development follows a ruling by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in Abuja, which on the same Tuesday issued an interlocutory injunction in favour of the FCT Minister and the FCTA. The court order directed workers operating under the Joint Union Action Committee to immediately suspend the ongoing strike action. Despite the court’s directive, some aggrieved workers who assembled on Tuesday maintained that they were no longer actively participating in the strike. However, they clarified that they would still remain in their homes rather than resume official duties. Staff members of the Federal Capital Territory Administration continued to insist on staying away from work, even with the existing court order that instructed them to halt the industrial action and return to their posts. Addressing journalists in Abuja, Wike reiterated that the FCT Administration had always shown readiness to resolve disputes through discussion. He explained that meetings had previously taken place between union representatives and management, during which several concerns were raised and addressed. According to the minister, assurances are often given during such engagements, suggesting that issues have been resolved. However, he noted that shortly after these meetings, contrary actions usually follow, leading to renewed tensions. Wike emphasized that meaningful dialogue remains possible if the workers genuinely acknowledge developments and are prepared for honest engagement. He warned, however, that he would not yield to pressure rooted in blackmail or threats. In his words, he stressed that intimidation would not influence his position, adding that even the involvement of additional civil servants would not alter his stance, as such actions fall outside his concern.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally requested the approval of the Nigerian Senate for a bill aimed at significantly expanding and reforming the Court of Appeal. The request was presented to lawmakers on Tuesday during plenary through a letter addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. The letter was read aloud on the floor of the Senate, marking the official introduction of the proposed legislation. According to the content of the letter, the bill seeks to amend existing legal provisions governing the Court of Appeal, with a major focus on increasing the number of justices serving on the appellate court. President Tinubu proposed that the current number of justices be raised from 70 to 110, describing the move as part of a broader judicial reform agenda. The president explained that the proposed amendments are designed to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Court of Appeal while improving its efficiency and overall effectiveness. He noted that the changes align with constitutional requirements and reflect evolving realities within Nigeria’s justice system. At the core of the bill is the expansion of judicial personnel. Tinubu identified the increase in the number of justices as the central amendment, emphasizing its importance in addressing the growing workload faced by the appellate court. In his words, the bill “seeks to increase the number of Justices of the Court of Appeal from 70 to 110 and provide clarification of judicial structure and seniority.” He stated that this adjustment would also bring greater clarity to the organisation of the court. Beyond increasing the number of justices, the proposed legislation also seeks to review and reorganise provisions relating to judicial ranking within the Court of Appeal. This includes redefining how seniority among justices is determined, as well as clarifying the ranking of the President of the Court of Appeal in relation to other members of the bench. President Tinubu further disclosed that the bill introduces measures aimed at modernising court processes, particularly through the adoption of technology in judicial proceedings. He noted that the proposed law allows for the conduct of Court of Appeal proceedings through electronic and audio means. According to the letter, the bill also provides for the establishment of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC) within the Court of Appeal. This centre would enable certain appellate matters to be referred for settlement outside the traditional courtroom process. Tinubu explained that the creation of the ADRC is intended to promote faster resolution of disputes and reduce the burden on the appellate court. He reiterated that appellate matters may be directed to the centre where appropriate, in line with the objectives of the proposed reforms. In addition to these structural and procedural changes, the president stated that the bill aims to enhance professional efficiency and legal certainty in appellate practice. He said the amendments reflect modern legal and institutional standards required for an effective justice system. The bill also seeks to update terminology and definitions contained in the principal law governing the Court of Appeal. This includes formal recognition of virtual hearings and the adoption of modern correctional terminology. Furthermore, the proposed legislation seeks to consolidate interpretative provisions to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with Nigeria’s current legal and institutional framework. President Tinubu described the reforms as timely and necessary, noting that they respond to increasing pressure on the appellate justice system. He stated that the changes are expected to reduce delays in the administration of justice, improve access to justice for litigants across the country, and strengthen public confidence in the judiciary. Following the reading of the letter, Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Rules and Business for further legislative consideration.
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The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has confirmed the arrival of eight cargo vessels at major Lagos seaports, including Lekki Port, Tin-Can Island Port, and Apapa Port, where they are currently positioned and awaiting clearance to begin discharge operations. These ships are conveying a range of essential consignments made up of bulk urea, sugar, gypsum, base oil, as well as empty containers, reflecting steady maritime activity across the Lagos port corridor. This disclosure was contained in the most recent Shipping Position Report issued by the Nigerian Ports Authority and released to members of the press in Lagos on Tuesday. The report provides an overview of vessel movements, cargo categories, and operational status across Nigeria’s busiest ports. In addition to the vessels already on ground, the Authority revealed that 28 more ships are expected to berth at the Apapa, Lekki, and Tin-Can Island ports within the period spanning January 27 to February 6. These anticipated arrivals are scheduled to transport a mix of petroleum products, food-related cargo, and other commercial shipments vital to domestic supply chains. According to the Shipping Position data, the incoming vessels will be carrying items such as bulk wheat, gypsum, fresh fish, premium motor spirit (petrol), bulk gas, crude oil, alongside containerised cargo destined for various sectors of the economy. The NPA further disclosed that 22 vessels are presently berthed at the Lagos ports and are actively engaged in offloading operations. The consignments being discharged include containers, crude oil, alkaline materials, base oil, bulk clinker, bulk wheat, bulk gypsum, bulk urea, and empty containers. This sustained flow of vessel traffic underscores the continued operational activity at Nigeria’s key maritime gateways and highlights the role of Lagos ports in facilitating trade, energy supply, and industrial input distribution across the country.
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Former England international and ex-Barcelona forward Gary Lineker has described Manchester United defender Harry Maguire as one of the most underrated footballers in the modern game. Lineker made this observation following Maguire’s impressive display during Manchester United’s dramatic 3–2 Premier League victory over Arsenal on Sunday. The centre-back delivered a commanding performance, drawing renewed attention to his often-overlooked qualities on the pitch. While speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker highlighted Maguire’s technical ability and composure, particularly when playing under pressure. According to the former striker, Maguire’s ability to remain effective with the ball at his feet is frequently underestimated by fans and pundits alike. Lineker also pointed to Maguire’s record with the England national team, emphasizing his reliability whenever he represents the Three Lions. He stressed that, despite criticism at club level, the defender has consistently delivered solid performances in international competitions. “I genuinely believe Harry Maguire is one of the most underrated players in football,” Lineker said during the podcast discussion. He further explained that Maguire’s confidence in possession and dependable displays for England demonstrate his true value as a defender. Reiterating his point, Lineker added that Maguire has never failed his country when called upon, underlining his importance to England’s defensive setup. His comments reflect a growing appreciation for Maguire’s contributions, particularly during high-pressure matches.
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The Interim National Chairperson of the Labour Party (LP), Nenadi Usman, has stated that only the faction of the party under her leadership will be officially listed on the ballot for the 2027 general elections. She made this declaration on Monday during an interview on Prime Time, a programme aired by Arise Television. According to Usman, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognises her as the legitimate national chairperson of the Labour Party, stressing that no other individual currently holds that recognition. Usman explained that this recognition carries significant implications for the party’s internal processes. She noted that only the leadership she heads is authorised to formally communicate with INEC regarding party activities, including the conduct of primary elections and congresses. She emphasised that any other faction, including the group led by Julius Abure, lacks the legal standing to invite INEC to observe or supervise party primaries. She further clarified that INEC’s position eliminates any uncertainty about the party’s leadership structure. According to her, the commission’s acknowledgment means that only one Labour Party can lawfully participate in the 2027 elections, and that party is the one operating under her interim leadership. Explaining the situation further, Usman said that INEC’s recognition confirms which faction represents the authentic Labour Party. She stressed that this clarity removes confusion over who has the authority to lead the party and oversee its electoral activities. The former lawmaker also used the interview to call for a shift in priorities among party members and stakeholders. She urged them to focus first on the interests of Nigeria, and secondly on the stability and unity of the Labour Party. According to her, genuine commitment to the nation and the party requires restraint and respect for institutional processes. Usman noted that her leadership has not engaged in attacks or internal hostility. She maintained that when a party official’s tenure expires, the appropriate response is for the party’s institutional organs to act, rather than allowing individuals to cling to positions. She explained that members of the National Executive Committee (NEC), along with other institutional stakeholders, convened with the party’s most senior political office holder, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State. She described Governor Otti as the highest-ranking elected official within the Labour Party, making him a key figure in guiding internal resolutions. According to Usman, the NEC and other stakeholders met to address the leadership vacuum after INEC indicated that the party no longer had a recognised leadership structure. She said the group collectively agreed that a temporary leadership team was necessary to organise congresses across all levels of the party. She outlined that the proposed process involved conducting congresses beginning from the ward level, progressing through local government and state levels, and ultimately leading to a national convention. This, she said, was intended to restore full internal order and compliance with electoral regulations. Usman stated that despite these efforts, some individuals refused to participate in the process. She maintained, however, that she has chosen a peaceful approach, insisting that her role was not driven by conflict or personal rivalry. Describing her disposition, Usman said she is not inclined toward confrontation or aggressive tactics. She stressed that her actions were guided by the need to stabilise the party and ensure its readiness for future elections, rather than by any desire to engage in internal battles.
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A legal practitioner and human rights advocate, Liborous Oshoma, has strongly criticised the call by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for the release of ₦130 billion allegedly withheld from the state’s local government allocations. Oshoma made the remarks on Monday while speaking during an interview on Arise Television, which was closely monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to him, the situation reflects what he described as Nigeria’s continued operation of a “feeding bottle” system of governance. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Governor Adeleke had earlier demanded the immediate disbursement of over ₦130 billion in statutory funds, which he claimed were withheld from the local government councils in Osun State. Reacting to the issue, Oshoma argued that Nigeria’s structure encourages excessive dependence on the federal government. He stated that at the end of every month, political actors converge in Abuja to depend on centrally shared revenue, rather than generating income independently. According to him, in a genuinely practised federal system, revenue generation should originate from the grassroots and move upward, rather than the federal government collecting nearly all income and redistributing it to states and local governments. He explained that the current system creates a scenario where states and local councils are forced to queue for funds, collecting allocations only when permitted. Oshoma noted that when a state government is not fully aligned with the authorities at the centre, it risks being sidelined through administrative or technical reasons. He further pointed out that such technicalities are often justified by citing alleged irregularities, including disputes surrounding local government elections conducted by the state. Oshoma insisted that it is contradictory for the federal government to retain funds meant for local governments while simultaneously promoting democratic values and integrity. He stressed that withholding allocations undermines governance at the grassroots level. According to him, the most appropriate step available to President Bola Tinubu is to instruct both the Minister of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to release the allocations designated for the affected local governments. He added that rather than seeking political compromises after withholding funds, the government should consider addressing tenure issues directly by compensating for the period already served or the remaining duration of the interrupted term, before allowing a fresh process to begin. Oshoma concluded that continuously holding back funds meant for local councils is unjust, emphasizing that the real victims of such actions are the ordinary residents of Osun State, not the governor
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Traditional leaders in Abia State have raised concerns over the state’s low participation level in national registration exercises and have now commenced a coordinated mobilisation effort to address the situation. Speaking during a council meeting held in Umuahia on Monday, the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, disclosed that monarchs across the state have agreed to actively mobilise residents to register for the National Identification Number (NIN) and obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs). The meeting was attended by principal officers of the Council as well as chairmen representing traditional rulers from all 17 local government areas of Abia State. During deliberations, the traditional institutions expressed dissatisfaction with the current registration statistics, noting that the figures do not reflect the size and population strength of the state. According to the monarchs, Abia risks being placed at a disadvantage in important national processes if the low registration trend continues. They stressed that it is unacceptable for the state to trail behind others in exercises that directly influence representation, planning, and development. Eze Mbah explained that the traditional rulers unanimously resolved to assume direct responsibility for encouraging eligible residents, especially citizens 18 years and above, who are yet to complete their NIN and voter registration processes. The Council emphasized that its goal is for Abia State to emerge among states with the highest number of registered citizens nationwide. They clarified that the initiative is not driven by personal motives or political interests, but rather by the collective interest of the state and its long-term development. To achieve this, the Council announced plans to deploy a grassroots-driven strategy, extending mobilisation activities beyond the state level to zones, local government areas, and autonomous communities. This approach, they said, is aimed at ensuring that no eligible resident is excluded from the registration process. In addition, the traditional rulers disclosed that they intend to evaluate the availability and sufficiency of registration facilities across the state. This includes assessing equipment, manpower, and logistical support by visiting offices where NIN and PVC registrations are conducted, with the aim of identifying gaps that may be hindering wider participation.
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Former England and Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, has suggested that Arsenal could end up being the main reason they fail to secure the Premier League title this season, should they allow their current advantage to slip away. Ferdinand made this observation while speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel following Arsenal’s dramatic 3–2 defeat to Manchester United in a Premier League clash on Sunday. According to the former centre-back, Arsenal’s most significant challenge is not necessarily their rivals, but their own mentality and approach to games. He explained that the pressure appears to be affecting the players, preventing them from expressing themselves fully on the pitch. “The biggest obstacle to Arsenal winning the league might actually be Arsenal themselves,” Ferdinand said. He went on to stress that the team needs to develop a stronger mindset and a fearless winning attitude, one that allows them to play with confidence and authority rather than restraint. “You have to build that character, that confidence, and that mentality that says, ‘We’re going to go out there and win this.’ Right now, they look tense, restricted, and too cautious,” he added. Ferdinand also noted that Arsenal’s style of play has become overly mechanical, lacking the freedom and creativity expected from a title-challenging side. He questioned the use of certain players, pointing out that the team does not appear to be maximizing their attacking potential. “They don’t look free enough. Everything feels robotic. That’s what I thought Eze was brought in for, but they’re not using him the way you’d expect,” Ferdinand stated. The former defender also aimed criticism at Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, suggesting that his tactical approach throughout the season has been overly conservative. According to Ferdinand, Arteta appears to be playing with caution rather than fully committing to an aggressive, decisive style. Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table was cut to just four points after a stunning late goal from Matheus Cunha, who came off the bench to beat goalkeeper David Raya, silencing the Emirates Stadium crowd. Michael Carrick’s side showed resilience in north London, recovering from an early setback after Lisandro Martinez unintentionally put the ball into his own net just before the 30-minute mark. A rare mistake from Martin Zubimendi allowed the visitors to draw level, with Bryan Mbeumo capitalizing on the error to score the equalizer. Momentum swung further in Manchester United’s favor in the 50th minute when Patrick Dorgu fired in a powerful strike that sent the away supporters into celebration. Arsenal appeared to have salvaged a point late on when Mikel Merino found the net following a chaotic scramble in the penalty area. However, Cunha’s introduction changed the course of the match, as his decisive goal sealed the victory after replacing Mbeumo. The result saw the Red Devils move above Chelsea into fourth position on the Premier League table, with Carrick continuing his impressive run after also guiding his team to a surprise derby win against Manchester City the previous weekend. Ferdinand continued his critique by likening Arteta’s tactical approach to a boxer who refuses to fully commit to powerful punches. “Arteta is naturally cautious,” he explained. “It’s like he’s only throwing light jabs. I haven’t seen him deliver that big right hand or step inside to land something decisive.” He added that Arsenal’s play often lacks intensity, describing it as tentative and lacking conviction rather than assertive and dominant. The former United defender also expressed concern about Bukayo Saka’s recent performances, suggesting that the winger has not been operating at his usual level. Ferdinand pointed out that Saka’s on-field chemistry with Martin Ødegaard appears to have declined compared to previous seasons. “He’s the player they usually rely on, but I don’t see him fully involved right now,” Ferdinand said. “Maybe it’s down to Arsenal’s setup, or perhaps United settled into their defensive shape quickly, limiting the space available.” While acknowledging Saka’s recent improvement in making outside runs, Ferdinand emphasized that the connection between the winger and Ødegaard is no longer as sharp or effective as it was 12 to 18 months ago.
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Former Chelsea captain John Terry has taken a swipe at Arsenal following their 3–2 loss to Manchester United in a Premier League clash played on Sunday. The defeat had wider implications beyond the match result, as Arsenal’s defensive numbers now rule them out of matching Chelsea’s historic Premier League defensive record from the 2004/2005 season. By conceding three goals in the encounter, Arsenal’s total goals conceded this season rose to 17, a figure that officially places them above Chelsea’s long-standing record. The Chelsea side from 21 years ago allowed only 15 goals throughout the entire league campaign, a benchmark that has remained untouched since then. With Arsenal now unable to equal that achievement, the record stays firmly in Chelsea’s hands for at least another season. Reacting after the game at the Emirates Stadium, Terry shared his thoughts on Instagram, writing simply, “The record is safe for another year.” The post was widely interpreted as a playful jab directed at Arsenal’s failed attempt to match the defensive milestone. John Terry was a central figure in the Chelsea team that achieved the record under the management of Jose Mourinho, playing a crucial role at the heart of the defence during that historic campaign. The former England defender, now 44 years old, went further by naming key members of that defensive unit. He mentioned Petr Cech, Paolo Maldini, Ricardo Carvalho, and William Gallas, suggesting it was time for the group to celebrate the enduring achievement. According to Terry, the moment deserved a toast, adding that it was time to mark the occasion with “a bottle or a glass of red wine.”
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Former Arsenal head coach Arsène Wenger has shared his thoughts on why the Gunners suffered a 3-2 defeat to Manchester United in their Premier League encounter on Sunday. According to the legendary French tactician, Arsenal’s approach to the match showed excessive urgency, which negatively affected their decision-making and overall control of the game. The London side managed to restore parity after Mikel Merino found the net to make the scoreline 2-2. However, their hopes of securing at least a point were dashed when United substitute Matheus Cunha struck the decisive goal, handing the Red Devils all three points. Wenger also took time to commend Manchester United’s tactical preparation, singling out Michael Carrick for executing an effective match strategy against Arsenal. He explained that Arsenal’s strong desire to claim victory led them to rush their play, reducing their level of patience, especially in key moments when composure was required. The former manager noted that Arsenal moved the ball too quickly without fully assessing situations, which disrupted their rhythm and allowed United to capitalize. In contrast, Wenger highlighted that Carrick achieved an impressive tactical balance for Manchester United. He observed that United combined defensive solidity with technical efficiency, enabling them to absorb pressure while remaining dangerous on the counter and during attacking transitions. Despite the setback, Arsenal remain in a favorable league position. Victories recorded by Manchester City and Aston Villa over the weekend mean the Gunners continue to hold a four-point advantage at the top of the Premier League standings.
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Former Manchester United defender and football analyst, Gary Neville, has expressed surprise over Mikel Arteta’s tactical choice to leave Gabriel Martinelli out of Arsenal’s starting lineup during their dramatic 3–2 Premier League defeat to Manchester United. According to Neville, the decision not to begin the match with Martinelli may have been a contributing factor in Arsenal falling short against the Red Devils at the Emirates Stadium. The result reduced Arsenal’s advantage at the top of the Premier League table to just four points, following Manchester United’s second straight victory under interim manager Michael Carrick. Arsenal appeared to have rescued a point late on when Mikel Merino finished from close range in the final six minutes of normal time, sending the home crowd into celebration. However, Manchester United had already mounted a strong response earlier in the game. Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu both found the net — one before the interval and another after the restart — coming after an early own goal by Lisandro Martinez that initially gave Arsenal the advantage. United continued to press relentlessly, and their persistence paid off late in the match. Second-half substitute Matheus Cunha struck a powerful effort from roughly 25 yards in the 87th minute, beating goalkeeper David Raya and sealing the win for the visitors. The defeat marked Arsenal’s first home loss of the season and allowed Manchester United to climb to fourth place in the league standings, moving one point ahead of Chelsea. Arteta’s side will now be eager to respond quickly as they prepare to face Leeds United in the Premier League next week, a fixture that could prove crucial in keeping their title push on track. Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, Neville reflected on Arsenal’s recent performances and suggested that warning signs had already appeared in their previous match against Liverpool. He pointed out that Liverpool lacked enough attacking strength in that game to fully capitalize against Arsenal. Neville noted that Liverpool were missing several key players and were unable to seriously threaten Arsenal, a situation that Manchester United did not replicate. “Manchester United have Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Benjamin Sesko, and Patrick Dorgu,” Neville said, emphasizing that United possess attackers capable of causing real damage. “They’ve been hurt tonight, Arsenal.” During the second half, Arteta made full use of his bench as Arsenal searched first for a winning goal and later for an equalizer. Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Ben White, and Merino were all introduced in north London. Despite the flurry of substitutions, Neville believes Arteta’s choices may have inadvertently eased the task for United’s tiring defense by not deploying Martinelli earlier. “He used everything he had to try and fix it,” Neville explained, before questioning why Martinelli was not part of the initial attacking setup. Neville suggested an alternative approach, proposing a more aggressive forward combination involving Martinelli, Madueke, Eze, and Gyokeres, while keeping a midfield trio of Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice. In his view, removing Bukayo Saka and committing fully to fresh attacking options could have added spontaneity and unpredictability. Neville concluded that while Arteta attempted to chase the game, the approach lacked full commitment. Reflecting further on the substitutions, Neville stated that he did not feel the changes significantly improved Arsenal’s performance or intensity, adding that the match failed to become as dynamic as he had expected following the second-half adjustments.
