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As the 2024/25 football season kicks off after an eventful summer, marked by Spain’s dominance and triumphs in both the Euro and the Olympics, football fans are eager to see what the new season holds.
The action begins on Friday, with Manchester United facing familiar foes Fulham.
This summer has been particularly busy for Nigerian players in Europe, with several making significant moves.
Here’s a look at six Nigerians who have switched clubs this season.
1. Kelechi Iheanacho
‘Senior Man,’ Iheanacho has opened a new chapter after his expiration of his contract and parting ways with Leicester City as a free agent.
Sevilla forward, Kelechi Iheanacho during his unveiling. Photo | sevillafc
His seven-year journey with the Foxes began in 2017 when he transferred from Manchester City for €27 million.
During his time at Leicester, Iheanacho won the FA Cup and the Community Shield, and more recently, he played a key role in their promotion back to the Premier League by winning the Championship
After 232 appearances, 61 goals, and 34 assists, Iheanacho joined Spanish side Sevilla on a two-year deal, with an option for an additional year.
Although Sevilla finished 14th in La Liga last season and won’t participate in European competitions this year, the club is confident that Iheanacho’s experience and talent will help them rise back up the table.
2. Chidera Ejuke
Sevilla announced the signing of Chidera Ejuke. Photo | X (SevillaFC)
Chidera Ejuke made history by becoming the first Nigerian to sign for Sevilla, joining the club on a free transfer after leaving CSKA Moscow.
During his four-year stint with Moscow, Ejuke spent much of his time on loan, with spells at Hertha BSC and Royal Antwerp. Despite limited opportunities, he managed to score 10 goals and provide 8 assists in 65 appearances for CSKA.
Ejuke has penned a three-year deal with Sevilla and will work under the guidance of former Watford coach Quique Sánchez Flores.
The club, which finished 14th in La Liga last season, is eager to return to its former glory, and Ejuke’s arrival is seen as a crucial step in that direction.
“It’s a special feeling to be the first Nigerian here,” Ejuke said after his signing. “But more than that, I’m excited to contribute to this team and help us achieve our goals.”
The move also presents a chance for Ejuke to reestablish himself in the Super Eagles squad, having last featured in a friendly against Algeria in September 2022.
3. Chidozie Awaziem
FC Cincinnati CB, Chidozie Awaziem. Photo | fccincinnati
Chidozie Awaziem, the quintessential “journeyman,” has added another club to his resume, joining MLS side Cincinnati from Boavista.
This marks his eighth club in eight years, but his performances have never wavered. Awaziem was a defensive pillar for Boavista during their 2023/24 Liga Portugal campaign, contributing one assist in 24 appearances while solidifying their backline.
This move to Cincinnati sees Awaziem bidding farewell to his fellow Nigerian teammates, Ibrahim Alhassan and Bruno Onyemaechi, at Estádio do Bessa.
His departure also marks the end of his long stint in Portugal, where he has played since 2014.
4. Olorunleke Ojo
Super Eagles goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo made a significant move by leaving NPFL champions Enyimba to join Sudanese giants Al-Merrikh Omdurman.
Al Merrikh SC officially unveil Olorunleke Ojo. Photo | X
Ojo was part of Nigeria’s squad at AFCON 2023, however didn’t feature in the tournament, serving as the third-choice goalkeeper.
Ojo joined Enyimba in 2021 and quickly rose to become the club’s captain, leading them to the Nigerian Professional Football League title under the guidance of former Super Eagles coach Finidi George in the 2022/23 season.
Al-Merrikh Omdurman, who finished second in the Sudanese league last season, was impressed by Ojo’s leadership and skills between the posts which prompted to go for the shot-stopper.
5. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Lazio have signed Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
