Barnsley FC Parts Ways With Super Eagles Star Kelechi Nwakali Over Pre-Season Delay.
Barnsley Football Club, a League One side, has terminated the contract of Nigerian international midfielder Kelechi Nwakali due to his late return for pre-season training, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The decision marks the end of the 26-year-old’s brief stint with the Tykes, as manager Conor Hourihane announced that Nwakali would be allowed to leave before the summer transfer window closes.
Nwakali, a former Super Eagles midfielder, returned to Barnsley late from holidays in Nigeria, a move that led to his exclusion from first-team training. Consequently, he was not considered for recent matches against Plymouth Argyle, Burton Albion, Fleetwood Town, and Bolton Wanderers. Hourihane, speaking to local media, expressed disappointment over the situation but confirmed the club’s decision to part ways with the player, stating, “Kelechi’s situation is clear; he’s free to find a new club.” The termination was also reported by sources on X, highlighting the club’s firm stance on discipline.
The Nigerian star, who impressed last season on loan with Portuguese side Chaves, had shown promise during his time at Barnsley. However, his delayed return disrupted the team’s pre-season preparations, prompting the club to take decisive action. TheGuildNG reported that the termination was a direct result of Nwakali’s failure to adhere to the club’s pre-season schedule, underscoring Barnsley’s commitment to maintaining professionalism.
Nwakali’s departure adds to the challenges faced by Nigerian players seeking to secure consistent roles in European football. The midfielder, who has previously played for clubs like Arsenal and Huesca, now faces the task of finding a new club to reignite his career. With the transfer window still open, there is optimism that Nwakali’s talent and experience will attract interest from other clubs across Europe or beyond.
This move comes at a time when several Super Eagles players are navigating pivotal moments in their careers, with the likes of Victor Osimhen who recently joined Galatasaray and Ademola Lookman also linked with potential transfer. For Nwakali, the focus will now shift to securing a new opportunity to showcase his abilities and reclaim his place on the international stage.
