As Europe’s elite clubs gear up for the new football campaign, several Nigerian internationals are chasing fresh starts, hoping to revive their club careers and boost their chances for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Moses Simon headlines the list of Super Eagles hopefuls aiming for a career boost, following his €7m switch from Nantes to newly-promoted Paris FC. The 29-year-old winger, who netted eight goals and assisted 10 more in the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season, will bring vital top-flight experience to Paris FC, as the club returns to the French elite division for the first time in 46 years. With 37 goals and 42 assists in 201 matches for Nantes, Simon’s pedigree will be crucial as Paris FC targets survival and possibly a cup run.
Despite finishing as top scorer in the Scottish Premier League with 18 goals for Rangers last season, Cyriel Dessers' future remains uncertain. A proposed transfer to AEK Athens has stalled due to Rangers’ financial stance and their delayed move for a replacement. Though personal terms have been agreed upon, the 30-year-old striker remains sidelined during pre-season by new manager Russell Martin. Dessers will be hoping for clarity soon to stay sharp ahead of a World Cup year.
Samuel Chukwueze’s dream Serie A move has yet to materialise into consistent success. After a difficult season where he made just nine starts in 26 league games, contributing three goals and two assists, AC Milan has reportedly placed the 26-year-old winger on the transfer list. With new manager Max Allegri in charge, Chukwueze’s future hangs in the balance. La Liga side Real Betis has shown interest, but a move is yet to materialize. A fresh start could reinvigorate his World Cup ambitions.
Taiwo Awoniyi endured a nightmare season at Nottingham Forest, managing just two goals in 32 appearances, mostly as a substitute. The 27-year-old’s campaign was marred by a ruptured intestine that led to a medically induced coma and a lengthy rehabilitation process. Now back in pre-season, a fully fit Awoniyi is determined to reclaim his starting role and contribute meaningfully as Forest prepares for domestic and European action for the first time in over 40 years.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s 2024/25 campaign offered little cheer, with the forward failing to make a significant impact at both Sevilla and loan club Middlesbrough. After scoring three times in the Copa del Rey for Sevilla and just once in 15 Championship appearances for Boro, the 28-year-old is now surplus to requirements under new Sevilla boss Matías Almeyda. Reports link him with a potential move to Mexican side Pumas UNAM, where he could finally get the consistent playing time he craves.
Bright Osayi-Samuel has swapped the Turkish Super Lig for the English Championship after joining Birmingham City. The 27-year-old right-back was a consistent performer for Fenerbahce last season, making 39 appearances as the club finished second under Jose Mourinho. His defensive reliability and experience will be pivotal as Birmingham aims for a return to the Premier League in 2026.
Zaidu Sanusi Struggles for Relevance Amid FC Porto Exit Plans
Zaidu Sanusi remains on the periphery at FC Porto, having failed to play a minute during the revamped FIFA Club World Cup this summer. The 27-year-old left-back has struggled with form and fitness since returning from a lengthy ACL injury, and Porto’s new manager Martin Anselmi
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