Club Brugge manager, Hayen Nicky has dispelled any speculation surrounding Raphael Onyedika’s absence from the starting lineup during their 3-0 win over KV Kortrijk.
Rumours had circulated linking the Nigerian midfielder with a summer move to Turkish champions Galatasaray, where he would have joined compatriot Victor Osimhen.
Despite reports of personal terms being agreed and claims of a transfer request, the Turkish window closed without a deal being finalised, leaving Onyedika at Brugge.
However, Nicky addressed the situation, clarifying why the player was not named in the starting XI against Kortrijk, on Sunday.
Hayen Nicky.( Photo by David Hagemann / Photo News via Getty Images)
“The fact that Onyedika starts on the bench has nothing to do with the transfer period. He only returned late after the international period, so I don’t want to take any risks,” Nicky explained through Club Brugge’s official channels.
Onyedika, who had just represented Nigeria during the September international break in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, came off the bench in the 60th minute.
His short appearance in the game helped Brugge secure the 3-0 victory and continue their strong start to the Jupiler Pro League season.
