Moses Simon’s New Parisian Adventure and Ligue 1 Challenge
Moses Simon, the dynamic Nigerian winger, embarks on a new chapter in his career following a €7 million transfer from Nantes to newly-promoted Paris FC. This move marks a significant step for both player and club. Simon, a proven performer in Ligue 1, brings his wealth of experience and attacking prowess to a team returning to the top flight after a 46-year absence. His consistent contributions at Nantes, with 37 goals and 42 assists in 201 appearances, highlight his ability to create and finish scoring opportunities. Simon’s eight goals and ten assists in the previous Ligue 1 season underscore his importance to Paris FC’s hopes of survival and a respectable finish in their return to the top division. The club’s ambition extends beyond mere survival, with aspirations of a strong league performance and potentially a domestic cup run. Simon’s experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through the challenges of a demanding Ligue 1 campaign.
Samuel Chukwueze at a Crossroads: Seeking a Fresh Start
Samuel Chukwueze, the talented Nigerian winger, faces an uncertain future at AC Milan after two seasons of mixed fortunes. Despite glimpses of his immense potential, Chukwueze has struggled to consistently deliver on the high expectations placed upon him. AC Milan, seeking to rebuild their squad following a disappointing eighth-place finish in Serie A and missing out on European football, have reportedly placed Chukwueze on the transfer list. The club’s decision to offload the winger reflects their need for funds and a reassessment of their attacking options. Chukwueze’s limited playing time last season, with only nine starts and three goals in 26 league appearances, further emphasizes his need for a change of scenery to reignite his career. A potential move away from Milan could offer him the opportunity to secure regular playing time and regain his form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, should Nigeria qualify. While Real Betis has shown interest, the transfer hinges on meeting Milan’s valuation. Should a move fail to materialize, Chukwueze faces the challenge of impressing new manager Max Allegri and fighting for a place in the starting lineup despite reports of the manager’s reservations about the player.
Taiwo Awoniyi’s Road to Recovery and Renewed Hope at Nottingham Forest
Taiwo Awoniyi, the Nottingham Forest striker, endured a difficult 2024/25 season plagued by limited playing time and a serious injury. His frustration was compounded by only two goals in 32 appearances across all competitions, primarily featuring as a substitute. A ruptured intestine suffered during a Premier League match necessitated a medically induced coma and a two-stage surgical procedure, further derailing his season. Having made a remarkable recovery, Awoniyi returns to pre-season training with renewed hope and determination to make a significant impact for Nottingham Forest. With the club’s return to European competition after over four decades, Awoniyi aims to contribute meaningfully in both domestic and continental campaigns. He will be looking to secure a more prominent role in the team’s attack and build upon his return to fitness.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Uncertain Future and Potential Mexican Move
Kelechi Iheanacho’s 2024/25 season was marred by limited opportunities and a loan spell away from Sevilla. Struggling for game time at the La Liga club, Iheanacho managed only nine league appearances and two Copa del Rey outings, albeit with three goals in the cup competition. A loan move to Middlesbrough in the English Championship failed to reignite his career, yielding just one goal and two assists in 15 appearances. Returning to Sevilla for pre-season, Iheanacho faces an uncertain future with new manager Matías Almeyda reportedly not including him in his plans. Reports linking him with a move to Mexican club Pumas UNAM suggest a potential escape route for the former U-17 starlet, offering him the chance to restart his career in a new environment. The Mexican league could provide Iheanacho with the platform to rediscover his form and demonstrate his abilities.
Bright Osayi-Samuel’s Defensive Prowess and Birmingham City’s Promotion Ambitions
Bright Osayi-Samuel, the recently signed Birmingham City defender, arrives with the task of solidifying the team’s backline and contributing to their promotion ambitions. Having featured prominently for Fenerbahce in the Turkish Super Lig last season, making 39 appearances across all competitions, Osayi-Samuel brings valuable experience to the Championship side. His defensive solidity and tactical awareness will be crucial for Birmingham City as they aim to secure a return to the Premier League. Osayi-Samuel’s consistent performances and ability to thwart opposition attacks will be instrumental in their quest for promotion. The Championship poses a different type of test to the Turkish Super Lig, and successfully adapting to the demands of the English second tier will be key to his and Birmingham City’s fortunes.
Zaidu Sanusi’s Fight for Recognition and Career Revival
Zaidu Sanusi, the FC Porto left-back, faces a critical juncture in his career as he seeks to regain his place in the Nigerian national team and revive his club career. Limited playing time at Porto, coupled with a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury, has hampered his progress in recent seasons. Despite having two years remaining on his contract, Sanusi has been deemed surplus to requirements by new Porto coach Martin Anselmi. The club’s intention to offload him presents both a challenge and an opportunity. While a move away from Porto is likely, the lack of concrete interest from other clubs underscores the need for Sanusi to prove his fitness and regain his form. A successful transfer and consistent performances could reignite his career and pave the way for a return to national team contention. Similarly, Cyriel Dessers, despite finishing as the Scottish Premiership top scorer with Glasgow Rangers, faces an uncertain future. A proposed move to AEK Athens has stalled due to Rangers’ financial demands and their search for a replacement. While he awaits a resolution to his transfer situation, Dessers remains focused on pre-season training, aiming to maintain his scoring form and impress potential suitors.
