33-cap Super Eagles defender abandons football to play soccer after MLS move

FC Cincinnati has announced the signing of Nigerian international defender Chidozie Awaziem from Portuguese club Boavista FC.

The 27-year-old centre-back has inked a deal with the Major League Soccer (MLS) side through 2025, with options for 2026 and 2027.

Awaziem who enjoyed his holidays in Nigeria brings a wealth of experience to Cincinnati, having made nearly 300 professional appearances across Europe since starting his career with FC Porto in 2015.

The Nigerian international has also earned 33 caps for his national team, including participation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the recent 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

"It's been a wonderful time I've had with Cincinnati," Awaziem told the club, expressing his enthusiasm for the move.

"I see the love the fans and everybody has for soccer. I see all the games that Cincinnati have been playing, and this has motivated me a lot to be part of this team."

Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati's Technical Director, praised the acquisition, stating, "Chidozie is a seasoned and accomplished defender who has played at the highest levels of the game. His experience, physicality and leadership will be invaluable assets as we continue to build a competitive roster."

Awaziem's impressive career includes stints with several European clubs, including Nantes in France, Çaykur Rizespor and Leganés in Spain.

In the 2023/24 season with Boavista FC, he made 27 appearances, 25 as a starter, despite international commitments, helping the troubled side avoid relegation on the final day of the campaign.

The defender will join Cincinnati's roster once he obtains his P-1 visa. This move to MLS marks a new chapter in Awaziem's career, as he takes on the challenge of competing in the growing American league.