What Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem offers new club Nantes after dumping MLS

Ligue 1 side FC Nantes have wasted no time reinforcing their squad after the departure of Nigerian star Moses Simon, turning to a familiar face with rich international experience, forgotten Super Eagles star, Chidozie Awaziem.

The Super Eagles defender returns to France after a spell in the MLS with Colorado Rapids, signing a three-year deal that keeps him at Nantes until June 2028.

The move follows the emotional exit of Simon, a six-season icon at Nantes and a key figure in their recent campaigns. Simon's switch to Paris FC for around €7 million closed a defining chapter, leaving big shoes to fill.

Enter Awaziem, not a winger, but a defensive stalwart who brings leadership, versatility, and top-level experience to a side aiming to rebuild and contend in Ligue 1.

• Awaziem’s signing isn’t just sentimental, it’s strategic.

“When the opportunity arose, I didn’t hesitate for a second, Nantes is like home,” Awaziem told the club’s media. “I want to help the club achieve its objectives, win trophies, and bring Nantes back to the top.”

With stints across Europe, including in Portugal (Boavista), Spain (Leganés), Turkey (Rizespor, Alanyaspor), Croatia (Hajduk Split), and most recently MLS, Awaziem has built a résumé that few Nigerian defenders can match.

The 28-year-old  arrives to Nantes for a second spell after his first in the 2017/2018 campaign as more than just a returning player, he brings with him a powerful mix of experience, grit, and technical intelligence.

Standing tall at 1.89 metres, the Super Eagles defender is a commanding presence in the air and rarely loses physical duels. His strength gives Nantes a much-needed anchor at the back, especially in a league known for its physicality.

But he’s not just about power. Awaziem is a defender who can play. His ball recovery and distribution have improved significantly over the years, making him a reliable outlet under pressure and a player who can start attacks from the back.

Versatility is another key asset. Whether in a traditional back four or a three-man defence, Awaziem can adapt, offering tactical flexibility to the coach. His calmness on the ball and positional awareness also make him dependable in high-stakes games.

Most importantly, he brings leadership and maturity. Having played in six different countries, and racked up over 200 senior club appearances, Awaziem returns to Nantes not as a prospect, but as a proven professional who understands the demands of European football.

In short, he’s not just filling a vacancy, he’s raising the standard.

He is no longer the developing prospect who first emerged in Europe, Awaziem is now a battle-tested international, with 31 caps for Nigeria and a strong World Cup qualifying background.

This transfer signals a calculated move to stabilise the backline, especially with Simon’s departure potentially altering the team’s attacking balance.

As FC Nantes begin a new chapter without the reliable Simon, Awaziem arrives not just as a replacement but as a pillar for what’s next. 

He blends the heart of a returning hero with the steel of a well-traveled defender, making him one of the club’s smartest summer signings.

I expect Awaziem, who played a key role in Nigeria’s AFCON 2019 run to the semifinal and bronze medal winners as a right-back, to play a key role in Nantes’ quest to return to the upper half of Ligue 1.

In his first spell, he managed just 22 appearances in Ligue 1 and started 16 of them and i believe he is in better shape to get more starts this season on his return.

This writer also believes this move to return to Europe offers Awaziem a chance to make a comeback to the Super Eagles under new boss Eric Chelle, who will now get a better chance to watch the defender more and assess him than when he was at the MLS.

Written by Izuchukwu Akawor for Pulse Sport