Chidozie Awaziem’s football journey has taken another exciting turn with his return to French Ligue 1 side, FC Nantes. The 28-year-old Nigerian international, who previously plied his trade with the club during the 2017-2018 season, has signed a three-year contract, solidifying his presence at the Stade de la Beaujoire until June 2028. This move marks a homecoming of sorts for Awaziem, who expressed his deep affection for the club and the city of Nantes, describing them as “like home.” His decision to return was instantaneous, driven by the positive memories and experiences from his previous stint, highlighting the strong bond he forged with the team and its supporters. The opportunity to contribute to Nantes’ ambitions and compete at the highest level further fueled his desire to rejoin the Ligue 1 outfit.
Awaziem’s return to European football follows a period in Major League Soccer (MLS), where he showcased his defensive prowess with both Colorado Rapids and FC Cincinnati. During his 2024 season with the Rapids, he became a mainstay in the starting lineup, accumulating 20 appearances and contributing an assist in a thrilling 3-2 victory against San Diego FC. Prior to his time in Colorado, he briefly represented FC Cincinnati, registering two assists in seven starts. While his time in MLS was relatively short, it provided valuable experience and further honed his skills, preparing him for the challenges of European football. The Rapids expressed gratitude for his contributions and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Nantes welcomes back a player who has grown significantly since his first spell at the club. Having matured both on and off the field, Awaziem returns with a wealth of international experience and a more refined skillset. During his initial time with Nantes, he benefited from playing alongside established defenders like Diego Carlos, Andrei Girotto, and Nicolas Pallois. These experienced players served as mentors, helping him develop his defensive acumen and adapt to the rigors of European football. Nantes believes that this experience, coupled with his subsequent international exposure, has molded him into a more complete and impactful player.
Awaziem’s football career began in his native Nigeria with El Kanemi Warriors, a club that provided the foundation for his future success. He then made the significant leap to Europe, joining FC Porto’s youth ranks in 2014. His talent and dedication quickly propelled him through the ranks, culminating in his professional debut for Porto in January 2016. Since then, his career has taken him across several countries, including Turkey, Spain, Croatia, Portugal, and the United States. Each stop has contributed to his development as a player, exposing him to different styles of play and enriching his tactical understanding of the game. This international exposure has broadened his perspective and enhanced his adaptability, making him a valuable asset to any team.
On the international stage, Awaziem has become a prominent figure for the Nigerian national team, earning 34 caps since his debut in 2017 against South Africa. He has represented the Super Eagles at prestigious tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup and three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations. These experiences, competing against some of the world’s best players, have undoubtedly shaped his game and instilled in him a winning mentality. His international career underscores his talent and his importance to the Nigerian national team setup.
Awaziem’s return to Nantes signifies more than just a transfer; it represents a reunion with a club he holds dear and an opportunity to reignite his European career. Armed with greater experience and maturity, he is poised to make a significant impact on the team. His ambition to help Nantes achieve its goals, win trophies, and compete at the highest level speaks volumes about his commitment and drive. The club, in turn, recognizes his potential and believes that he will play a crucial role in their pursuit of success. His journey, from the local pitches of Nigeria to the grand stages of international football, is a testament to his perseverance, talent, and the transformative power of football. Nantes’ fans eagerly await his contributions and are confident that he will embrace the challenge with the same passion and dedication that have defined his career thus far.
