Transfer News: Angry fans slam ex-Nigeria coach Finidi George's Rivers United after losing 20-year-old star to NPFL rivals

Alex Oyowah (left) has left Finidi George and Rivers United for Remo Stars.

Transfer News: Angry fans slam ex-Nigeria coach Finidi George's Rivers United after losing 20-year-old star to NPFL rivals

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 13:53 - 24.07.2024

The youngster has left Finidi George and Rivers United for NPFL rivals Remo Stars.

The shock departure of star midfielder Alex Oyowah from Rivers United to Remo Stars has sparked a furious reaction from the club's passionate fans, who have accused the team's management of being "unserious" in their approach to player retention.

Oyowah, a creative midfielder who was instrumental in Rivers United's quarterfinal run in the CAF Confederation Cup last season, has decided to seek a new challenge with the Ikenne-based Remo Stars, leaving many supporters bewildered and disappointed.

Rivers United: Fans react angrily to Oyowah’s move

The 20-year-old playmaker had impressed with Bayelsa United before his move to Rivers United last year, showcasing his immense potential with a series of eye-catching performances.

However, the transfer to Rivers United, who just named ex-Nigeria coach, Finidi George, as the new boss, was not without its controversies, as a contract dispute with Bayelsa United had threatened to derail the move.

Alex Oyowah in a Bayelsa United kit.
Alex Oyowah in a Bayelsa United kit.

Now, with Remo Stars securing a spot in the prestigious CAF Champions League, it appears that the lure of continental football has played a significant role in Oyowah's decision to leave Rivers United.

"Rivers United letting go of their best player of the just concluding season, Oyowah to Remo Stars, tells me they aren't serious," one fan expressed on social media, summing up the general sentiment among the Pride of Rivers faithful.

Rivers United new manager Finidi George.

Another supporter went even further, questioning the club's decision-making process, asking, "Dear @RiversUnitedFC, how on earth did you let Alex Oyowah leave? And of all teams, Remo Stars?"

One fan sarcastically remarked, "We dey plan Super Team, my super players dey plan me," a clear reference to the club's ambition to build a formidable squad for the upcoming season.

Attacking midfielder Oyowah netted six goals for United last season in the NPFL.
Attacking midfielder Oyowah netted six goals for United last season in the NPFL.

The departure of Oyowah is undoubtedly a massive blow to Rivers United's aspirations revealed by new manager Finidi George, as the talented midfielder was a driving force behind their impressive Confederation Cup campaign.

The Pride of Rivers will now have to regroup and find a suitable replacement for their departed star, in a bid to bounce back from this latest setback and mount a serious challenge for domestic honours under Finidi, who joined the club after a pain stint with the Super Eagles.

Related content