Genclerbirligi to sack Henry Onyekuru: What this means for his next career move

Turkish Süper Lig club Gençlerbirliği has decided to part ways with Super Eagles striker Henry Onyekuru, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Nigerian forward arrived at the club last summer with significant fanfare, but the transfer ultimately proved to be a disaster.

Onyekuru brought an impressive Süper Lig resume to the club, having won the league title with Galatasaray in 2019. For a newly promoted side like Gençlerbirliği, he was expected to be the vital X-factor in their attack.

​However, the Super Eagles striker failed to score in any of his 19 appearances last season. His lack of productivity in front of goal was a major factor in the team’s struggles, as they narrowly avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth.

Had it not been for a miraculous 3-0 victory over Trabzonspor at Papara Park on the final day of the campaign, the club would now be preparing for life in the second division by now.

​Toward the end of the season, the relationship between the club and the player deteriorated. According to sections of the Turkish media, the club grew frustrated with Onyekuru’s perceived lethargic work ethic, leading them to exclude him from the squad for the remainder of the campaign—a move that likely served as a tactic to force his departure.

​Now, according to Haber Ankara Spor, Gençlerbirliği has decided to formally terminate Onyekuru’s contract.

Although his deal was not set to expire until next summer, the club has already initiated the process to sever ties with the forward.

​What’s Next for Henry Onyekuru?

​Gençlerbirliği’s decision to cut ties with Henry Onyekuru is a significant setback for the Super Eagles star. Asides from the loss of income and stability, the move could have a lasting impact on his career.

​It took quite some time for Onyekuru to find a club last summer, and he ultimately had to settle for a newly promoted side.

In truth, his market value has reduced following his poor performance last season and the damage to his professional reputation.

​As a result, he is unlikely to attract many offers from top-tier Turkish clubs. It would not be a surprise to see him move to a second-tier Turkish side or a lower-division European league next season.

This is a significant decline for a player who was signed by Monaco for nearly €13.5 million just six years ago.

​Despite the bleak outlook, Onyekuru will be hoping for a fresh start as he looks for a new club this summer transfer window.