Former Aberdeen and Arsenal footballer Willie Young dies age 73

Robin van Persie, the current coach of Feyenoord, shares how a heartfelt conversation with his daughter inspired him to embrace coaching and reflect on his past experiences with Arsenal and Manchester United. He emphasizes the importance of finding one's passion early in life, a lesson he imparts to his children. This story matters as it highlights the personal growth and transformation of a former football star into a mentor, showcasing the impact of family and self-awareness in shaping one's career.

Arsenal has strongly opposed Crystal Palace's request to reschedule their Carabao Cup quarter-final match to December 23. Manager Mikel Arteta argues that it would be unfair for both teams to play two matches within just over 48 hours, especially given the demanding schedule of three games in five days. This situation highlights the challenges teams face during the busy holiday season and raises questions about player welfare and scheduling fairness in competitive football.

This weekend's Premier League matches promise to be exciting, with key players and teams to watch. Arsenal faces a challenge against Burnley, particularly from their impressive full-backs, Kyle Walker and Quilindschy Hartman. Fulham and Palace are also feeling the pressure, making for a weekend filled with potential surprises. Fans should keep an eye on the Golden Boot race as well, as top scorers vie for the coveted title. These matchups are crucial not just for points, but for shaping the season ahead.

Max Dowman's journey from Billericay to making history with Arsenal is an inspiring tale of passion and determination. Growing up in a family of Arsenal supporters, Dowman was destined for greatness when he was discovered playing for Billericay Town's youth team. His recent appearance at the Emirates Stadium marks a significant milestone not just for him, but also for the community that nurtured his talent. This story resonates with many young athletes who dream of making it big, showcasing how local clubs can play a pivotal role in shaping future stars.

The Carabao Cup quarter-final draw has set up exciting matchups, including Arsenal facing Crystal Palace and Manchester City taking on Brentford. Chelsea managed a thrilling 4-3 victory over Wolves, while Arsenal secured their spot by overcoming Brighton. Tottenham, however, faced disappointment with a 2-0 loss to Newcastle. These matches are significant as they highlight the competitive nature of the tournament and the potential for upsets, keeping fans engaged as teams vie for a place in the semi-finals.

Arsenal continues its impressive winning streak, showcasing the talent of its young players as Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka score to eliminate Brighton from the Carabao Cup. This victory not only highlights the club's bright future but also marks a significant moment for Max Dowman, who became the youngest player to start for Arsenal at just 15 years old. The team's success in this tournament is crucial as it builds momentum and confidence for the season ahead.

This week in football is packed with excitement as Liverpool prepares to face Aston Villa, followed by a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid and a showdown with Manchester City. The Premier League is heating up, and fans are eager to see how defending champions Liverpool will perform under pressure. With key matches on the horizon, the outcomes could significantly impact the league standings and the teams' morale.

A tragic stampede at a temple in Andhra Pradesh, India, has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people. Authorities have announced that disciplinary action will be taken against the privately-run temple for failing to secure the necessary official approvals. This incident highlights the importance of safety regulations in crowded places, especially during religious events, to prevent such devastating occurrences in the future.

The upcoming mayoral election in New York City is generating significant attention, as its implications reach well beyond the city's five boroughs. With candidates like Zohran Mamdani in the mix, the election is poised to influence not just local policies but also broader discussions on governance and community engagement. This election matters because it reflects the changing dynamics of urban leadership and the priorities of its diverse electorate.

Derek Huffman, a US national, has expressed his gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for granting him Russian citizenship. This development highlights the growing ties between individuals from the US and Russia, showcasing a personal journey that transcends political boundaries. Huffman's pride in his new citizenship reflects a unique perspective on identity and belonging, especially in a time of complex international relations.

In a heartfelt tribute, Serbian students organized a powerful memorial to honor the 16 victims of last year's railway disaster in Novi Sad. The event featured a poignant 16 minutes of silence, symbolizing the lives lost and the impact of the tragedy on the community. This act of remembrance not only pays respect to those who perished but also highlights the importance of safety and awareness in public transportation, fostering a sense of unity and resilience among the attendees.

Israel has announced that the remains of three individuals recently returned from Gaza by Hamas do not belong to any of the hostages, marking a significant setback in the ongoing negotiations for a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. This development raises concerns about the future of peace talks and the fate of those still unaccounted for, highlighting the complexities and challenges in the region.