Soccer
Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidozie Awaziem. Photo by Imago
Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem has reportedly informed his French club, Nantes, that he intends to leave this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.
Awaziem joined the former Coupe de France winners from Major League Soccer (MLS) side Colorado Rapids last summer, with high expectations that he would slot seamlessly into the backline.
However, his impact was inconsistent. Nantes cycled through three different managers last season, with each one bringing his unique tactical approaches. And that hindered the defender’s ability to find a rhythm. Across his 26 appearances last season, he managed one goal and two assists.
Despite his contributions, the club suffered a disappointing blow in the 2025/2026 campaign, finishing in 17th place and suffering relegation to Ligue 2. Following the drop, the 29-year-old has made it clear that he wishes to explore a new challenge, prioritizing a departure from the club.
Chidozie Awaziem: What’s Next For Super Eagles defender?
After just one season at FC Nantes, Awaziem is eager to move on, according to Emmanuel Merceron via Nantes Inside.
The reasoning for his exit is straightforward: following Nantes’ relegation, he is expected to face a significant salary reduction as the club downsizes to accommodate the financial realities of second-tier football.
As it stands, his next destination remains uncertain. Given that Awaziem has become something of a journeyman throughout his career, it is unclear whether he will look to return to Portugal — where he spent the majority of his professional life — or head back to the MLS.
At a market value of just €2.5 million on Transfermarkt, the Super Eagles international is an affordable option for potential suitors. His profile as a physically imposing, versatile defender comfortable with the ball at his feet makes him an attractive prospect.
Awaziem has 40 appearances for the Super Eagles, and was most recently part of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations. He brings significant top-level experience to any prospective buyer, so it will be interesting to see where the defender decides to continue his career this summer.
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
Away from work, Kelvin is an avid fan of basketball, enjoys a great movie, and is always discovering new music.
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