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Nigerian players struggling in Europe face tough 2025 start

Published

8 months ago

September 25, 2025

Nigerian players struggling in Europe this season face injuries, limited minutes and tough competition, raising AFCON 2025 concerns for Super Eagles regulars

Nigerian players struggling in Europe during the early stages of the 2025/26 season are facing a worrying mix of injuries, poor form and lack of playing time, casting doubt on their readiness for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.

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From England to Spain and across to Portugal and Greece, several Super Eagles stars have endured frustrating starts to the campaign, with some yet to make a single competitive appearance for their clubs.

Awoniyi frozen out at Forest

Taiwo Awoniyi has not played a single minute for Nottingham Forest this season. The striker has only been named on the bench twice in seven matches, falling behind new signing Igor Jesus.

Chukwueze benched at Fulham

Samuel Chukwueze’s move to Fulham has yet to bear fruit. The former Villarreal winger has not played a single minute, staying on the bench for his first two Premier League appearances.

The wait continues for the Super Eagles speedster to reignite his European career.

Umar Sadiq sidelined at Sociedad

Real Sociedad have effectively frozen out Umar Sadiq, who has not made a matchday squad this season.

Coach Sergio Francisco reportedly does not consider the striker part of his plans. A January exit now looks likely for the 26-year-old.

Ejuke and Adams off the pace at Sevilla

Chidera Ejuke has struggled to make an impact at Sevilla, registering only 130 minutes across four matches.

His low attacking output and dribbling stats suggest a player still finding his feet in Spain.

Meanwhile, Akor Adams is slowly working back from a hamstring injury that kept him out for 15 games last season.

He’s managed just one assist in four appearances and is being eased into action.

Lookman recovering after failed move

Ademola Lookman’s rocky pre-season, including a failed transfer to Inter Milan, delayed his return to competitive football.

He finally made his debut as an 87th-minute substitute against Torino.

Coach Ivan Juric noted that the Nigerian received “bad advice” and must now work on his fitness and form after months of individual training.

Onyemaechi and Awaziem with mixed fortunes

Bruno Onyemaechi has played in just two of six matches, receiving yellow cards in both and struggling to hold down a starting role.

His coach remains hopeful but insists the player must step up in training.

In contrast, Chidozie Awaziem has featured consistently for Nantes but has only one clean sheet to show for it.

Defensive lapses and a poor disciplinary record continue to raise questions about his reliability.

Adeleye adjusting in Greece

Adebayo Adeleye’s switch to Greek side FC Volos has given him more playing time, including a standout debut in the Greek Cup.

However, the goalkeeper has only one clean sheet in three full matches and is still settling into his new environment.

Sanusi slowly returning to form

One of the brighter spots on the list, Zaidu Sanusi has made a successful return from a year-long ACL injury and played every game for Porto this season.