Club Brugge and Belgium football icon Marc Degryse has expressed strong criticism of Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika’s performance during the team’s recent 2-1 victory over Westerlo.
Degryse labeled Onyedika’s display as “unacceptable” and urged the club to address the player’s actions.
The 23-year-old Nigeria international, who provided the assist for Jorne Spileers’ opening goal, struggled with several misplaced passes during the match, one of which led to Westerlo’s goal.
Onyedika was eventually substituted in the 81st minute, but his reaction to being taken off also drew attention.
He made a dismissive gesture toward head coach Nicky Hayen as he left the pitch.
Speaking to Voetbalbelgie, Degryse, 59, did not hold back in his assessment of Onyedika’s performance.
“On Saturday in Westerlo, I found his performance outrageous. It was over the top—so nonchalant. I know coaches who would have replaced him after twenty minutes,” Degryse said.
Club’s Raphael Onyedika and Westerlo’s Adedire Mebude in action during a Pro League’ first division match. (Photo by Tom Goyvaerts / BELGA MAG / Belga via AFP)
He stressed further that the club must address Onyedika’s attitude.
“I think a coach or even the board should make it clear to Onyedika that such a performance is unacceptable. And then he was still angry when he was substituted. I’ve never seen anything like that from a player in the No. 6 position.”
Despite the criticism, Onyedika has been a regular fixture for Club Brugge this season, featuring in nine league matches so far.
