Nigerian midfield maestro Kelechi Nwakali swaps Portugal for England's third tier to prove a point

Kelechi Nwakali joined Barnsley this summer

Nigerian midfield maestro Kelechi Nwakali swaps Portugal for England's third tier to prove a point

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 19:38 - 12.08.2024

Nigeria and Super Eagles midfielder Kelechi Nwakali has joined League One outfit Barnsley.

Nigerian international Kelechi Nwakali has swapped the sun-kissed shores of Portugal for the gritty confines of League One, joining Barnsley on a three-year deal.

The 26-year-old midfield maestro, who cut his teeth at Arsenal after winning the Golden Ball at the 2015 U17 World Cup, has left Chaves after disciplinary issues to embark on a new challenge in England's third tier.

And the Tykes, who ply their trade at the iconic Oakwell stadium, wasted no time in unveiling their latest signing, with Nwakali renowned for his long rang strikes penning terms for an undisclosed fee.

'Barnsley Football Club are delighted to confirm the signing of Nigerian International midfielder Kelechi Nwakali from G.D Chaves for an undisclosed fee subject to visa and international clearance,' the club announced on their social media channels.

Kelechi Nwakali returns to England with League One side Barnsley.
Kelechi Nwakali returns to England with League One side Barnsley.

After various loan spells across Europe, Nwakali finally secured a permanent move to Spain's La Liga in 2019, joining Huesca before stints with Alcorcón and Ponferradina.

But now the silky-skilled Super Eagle has set his sights on conquering the English game, declaring: 

'In my career, I need to prove a point again. Coming here, it's time to prove myself to the world and have an impact on the club.'

Nwakali, who is a full international debut for Nigeria, will be hoping to hit the ground running at Oakwell as he bids to reignite his career.

Kelechi Nwakali celebrates first goal of the season weeks back.

The Nigerian schemer, known for his vision, passing range and dribbling ability, will be tasked with adding some much-needed creativity to a Barnsley side aiming to mount a promotion push this season.

And with the Tykes nestled firmly in the heart of Yorkshire, Nwakali will be swapping the sunny climes of Portugal for the gritty northern terrain as he looks to become the next Nigerian superstar to make his mark in English football.

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