Super Eagles goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye has joined the Cypriot side Enosis Neon Paralimniou from Hapoel Jerusalem on a free transfer.
The former U17 goalkeeper, who has been in and out of the Super Eagles recently, opted to move to Cyprus despite being linked with clubs in Holland and Russia.
Adeleye has been a mainstay for Hapoel Jerusalem in the Israeli Ligat ha’Al since joining them from Hapoel Katamon in 2019.
Touted as one of the best goalkeepers out of Nigeria in recent times, he has not yet fully lived up to that expectation.
This past season in Israel, Adeleye played 18 times in all competitions, conceding 21 goals and keeping three clean sheets. His team, Hapoel Jerusalem, finished 7th with 31 points from 26 matches.
Nigeria adventure
Adeleye was first called up to the Super Eagles in 2022 for a friendly against Ecuador and has been part of the squad three times since.
He finally made his Nigeria debut in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in June 2023 when the Super Eagles faced Sierra Leone in Freetown. Adeleye was in goal as Nigeria secured a 3-2 victory, making crucial saves to help his team.
The 24-year-old was also on the bench in Nigeria’s 6-0 win over Sao Tome and Principe in another Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo.
Since then, he has not been called up and was not listed in Nigeria’s preliminary squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Furthermore, he was not included in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin. Adeleye hopes his performance at his new club will convince national selectors to consider him again.
Move to Enosis Neon Paralimniou
Enosis Neon Paralimniou, who recently gained promotion to the Cypriot top flight, hope Adebayo Adeleye can help them maintain their top-flight status and possibly win some laurels in the future.
The club's decision to sign Adeleye reflects their ambition to solidify their position in the league and build a competitive team.
Adeleye’s move to Enosis Neon Paralimniou marks a new chapter in his career.
The Cypriot league will provide him with a fresh challenge and an opportunity to showcase his talent on a different stage.
His experience in Israel and with the Nigerian national team will be invaluable as he aims to make a significant impact at his new club.
Adebayo Adeleye will have another Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, who plays for Omonia Nicosia, for company as both will hope to form a Nigerian goalkeeping union in the European country.
