Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu continues his impressive run in the Turkish Super Lig, making his mark for Trabzonspor and overshadowing established names like Mauro Icardi and Edin Dzeko.
The towering 29-year-old striker has become an indispensable part of the Black Sea Storm, racking up an impressive 16 goals in just 26 matches. This tally surpasses the goalscoring records of several high-profile strikers in the league, including Icardi and Dzeko.
Onuachu: Efficient Goal King
Onuachu's hot streak shows no signs of abating. He's netted an incredible 6 goals in his last 4 appearances, bringing his league total to 15. This scoring spree includes 7 headed goals, tying him with Cardozo for the most headed goals in a single season for Trabzonspor since the 2010-11 season.
According to Fotomaç, among Trabzonspor players who have played over 600 minutes in the league since 2014-15, Onuachu boasts the best goal contribution rate. He averages a goal every 80 minutes on the pitch, demonstrating his remarkable efficiency in front of goal.
Paul Onuachu outperforms the big names
Despite playing fewer matches than some of the league's top scorers, Onuachu is averaging more goals per game than Icardi (23 goals), Dzeko (20 goals), Rey Manaj (18 goals), and Mame Thiam (18 goals).
Furthermore, Onuachu has achieved this feat without a single penalty goal, making his accomplishment even more impressive. He averages a goal every 101 minutes, with Icardi (117 minutes) coming closest to his efficiency. Dzeko and Manaj both require 135 minutes to score a goal, while Thiam needs a staggering 171 minutes.
Even compared to Antalyaspor's Artur Sobiech, who has scored the same number of goals as Onuachu, the Nigerian international comes out on top. Sobiech requires 191 minutes to score a goal, highlighting Onuachu's superior ability to find the net.
Paul Onuachu's remarkable form is turning heads in Turkey and beyond. He is proving himself a force to be reckoned with, leaving established stars in his wake and propelling Trabzonspor to a third-place finish.
Loan star Onuachu at the center of tug-of-war between Trabzonspor and Southampton
The towering Nigerian striker on loan at Trabzonspor from Southampton, has become a hot commodity after a blistering run of form in the Turkish Super Lig. Despite scoring a staggering 14 goals in just 20 games, Onuachu's future remains uncertain as both clubs vie for his services.
The ‘Purple and Blue' faithful have been thoroughly impressed by Onuachu's goal-scoring prowess. Trabzonspor's management are actively engaged in negotiations to extend his loan deal after his impressive spell. They are likely to submit a significantly improved offer in the coming days to entice the Super Eagles player to stay.
However, sources close to the 29-year-old told Afrikfoot that he prefers to return to England. Perhaps Onuachu believes he can rediscover his form permanently on English soil. This creates a dilemma for Trabzonspor, who must convince him of their project's long-term appeal.
Trabzonspor seem to be preparing for all possibilities. Another Nigerian striker, Tolu Arokodare, is reportedly being considered as a Plan B should they fail to secure Onuachu's future. Arokodare possesses similar attributes to Onuachu, suggesting Trabzonspor are determined to maintain a physical presence upfront.
The tug-of-war between Trabzonspor and Southampton for Onuachu's services is set to intensify in the coming days.
Can Paul Onuachu’s form earn him a spot in Finidi’s World Cup qualifying squad?
Paul Onuachu's blistering goalscoring form for Trabzonspor has reignited his hopes of securing a spot in Nigeria's squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
While included in the Super Eagles squad for the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Onuachu saw limited playing time despite Nigeria's impressive run to second place. Now, the towering striker aims to change that narrative with his current club form.
Onuachu faces stiff competition for a place upfront. Established names like Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Cyriel Dessers will be vying for selection as Coach Finidi George prepares to announce his squad for the crucial clashes against South Africa and Benin.
The Super Eagles will resume their qualifying campaign on 7 June, hosting South Africa in Uyo before traveling to Abidjan to take on Benin Republic.
Currently, Nigeria sit third in Group C with two points from draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Rwanda currently lead the group, followed by South Africa, Nigeria, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Benin.
