Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche has not only impressed his own coach and fans, he is also turning rivals into admirers
Rayo Vallecano manager Inigo Perez has heaped praise on Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche ahead of their La Liga clash with Getafe, even though Uche won't feature due to suspension.
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The 24-year-old, who has been instrumental for Getafe this season, will sit out after picking up a red card against Espanyol, a blow Perez says could significantly impact the game.
‘Irreplaceable’ Uche leaves big gap in Getafe’s engine room
With eight direct goal contributions in the form of three goals and five assists, in 30 appearances, Chrisantus Uche has quickly established himself as one of Getafe’s most dependable performers this season.
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For Rayo Vallecano boss Inigo Perez, that reliability hasn’t gone unnoticed. Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Perez admitted Uche’s absence will have an impact not just on Getafe but also on Rayo’s approach to the game.
Speaking ahead of the match, Perez said, “Well, the influence of a player's absence always has to be taken into account, even more so in a player like Uche, who we've seen throughout the season at Getafe, his influence can be.
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“It's palpable, it's visible, and anyone who watches Getafe realises how important he is to their coach and their team.
“So, it's an absence that they'll surely make up for with another top-level player, because that's what their squad says. It affects us in a way, because those characteristics, that trait, are irreplaceable.”
Uche still awaiting Super Eagles debut
Uche’s performances haven’t just caught the eye in La Liga, and they have also sparked interest at the international level.
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The midfielder was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March, and while he didn’t make the final cut, the door remains wide open for future opportunities.
With Getafe still chasing a European spot as the season winds down, Uche’s focus will now shift to returning from suspension and helping his side finish strong.
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For a player described as “irreplaceable” by a rival coach, his comeback could be the difference between a mid-table finish and a spot on the continent next season.