Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu continues revamp with 13 players shown the door

Yemi Daniel and Kanu Nwankwo after the unveiling at Enyimba.

Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu continues revamp with 13 players shown the door

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 17:09 - 28.08.2024

Super Eagles icon Nwankwo Kanu's Enyimba have confirmed the departure of 13 players ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Enyimba Football Club, under the management of Super Eagles icon Nwankwo Kanu, have announced a key restructuring of its squad with the departure of 13 players ahead of the 2024/25 season.

This move signals a bold step in Kanu's plan to revitalise the 'People's Elephant' and reclaim their position at the pinnacle of Nigerian football.

Enyimba’s Key Departures

The most notable exit is Super Eagles goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo, who has joined Sudanese side Al Merrikh.

Ojo's departure comes after an impressive final season with Enyimba, where he finished with 11 clean sheets in the NPFL and helped the team clinch a CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) ticket.

Olorunleke Ojo with the Enyimba flag after the game against Plateau United. (Photo Credit: Enyimba)

The 28-year-old's final appearance for Enyimba was a fitting farewell, as he contributed to a 2-0 victory against Plateau United.

Other significant departures include midfield talents Chibuike Nwaiwu and Ikenna Cooper, as well as Chijioke Mbaoma, who leaves the club after an outstanding 2023/24 season where he claimed both the NPFL top scorer award and Player of the Season honours.

Enyimba's Chijioke Mbaoma finished as top scorer with 17 goals.

Club Statement

In a statement, Enyimba expressed their gratitude to the departing players: "Enyimba FC expresses deep gratitude to these players for their dedication and contributions to the club. Their efforts have played a vital role in our journey, and they will always be remembered as valued members of the Enyimba family.

This mass exodus is part of Kanu's broader strategy to rejuvenate Enyimba and challenge their rivals, particularly Enugu Rangers.

Kanu Nwankwo believes Enyimba are on the right path.

The Super Eagles legend is not only reshaping the squad but also revolutionising the matchday experience for fans.

In a groundbreaking move, Enyimba unveiled a dedicated Family Stand at their stadium in Aba. This innovation aims to create a more inclusive atmosphere and nurture a new generation of supporters.

Yemi Daniel Olanrewaju and Nwankwo Kanu at Enyimba.

The Family Stand is expected to make game days more enjoyable and transform the matchday experience for NPFL fans in Aba.

As Enyimba prepare for the 2024/25 season, all eyes will be on how Kanu fills the gaps left by these departures. The club's ability to recruit wisely and integrate new players will be crucial in their quest to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in Nigerian football.