Super Eagles: Key condition for new Chidera Ejuke Sevilla contract

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Chidera Ejuke has given Sevilla another reason to reconsider his future, but coach Luis García Plaza has made clear that the Nigerian winger still has one important condition to meet, Afrik-Foot reports.

Ejuke’s situation at the Spanish club has changed dramatically in recent weeks. The 28-year-old spent much of pre-season on the fringes of the squad as Sevilla explored the possibility of selling him, with his proposed move to Anderlecht failing to materialise. He subsequently returned to group training and was brought back into contention.

On Saturday, he further strengthened his case, coming off the bench to score Sevilla’s second goal in their impressive 3-1 victory over Athletic Club at San Mamés.

His goal was a reminder of the attacking quality that made Sevilla reluctant to completely shut the door on him, but García Plaza’s reaction after the game suggested that the winger’s future will depend on more than occasional moments of brilliance.

Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla in the Nigerian transfer news
Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao and Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla. Copyright: ImagoxAgenciaxLOFx

Chidera Ejuke must show commitment

The Sevilla coach acknowledged that the winger was close to leaving the club during the summer but believes his unique ability can still make him an important player.

“Life has its strange moments, and Chidera was on the verge of leaving when we went to the Netherlands,” García Plaza said in quotes revealed by Dario AS.

“But if he commits, he possesses a one-on-one ability that very few players in the First Division have.”

Sevilla already know what Ejuke can do with the ball. His goal against Athletic demonstrated it again, as he drove into the box before delicately lifting the ball over Unai Simón.

The question has always been whether he can turn that individual brilliance into consistent value for the team.

Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla FC in action against Athletic Club
Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla FC in action against Athletic Club. Copyright: xRicardoxLarreinax

Last season, Ejuke made 27 LaLiga appearances but started only five matches, contributing one goal and one assist. His tendency to drift out of games and tactical inconsistencies were among the reasons Sevilla were prepared to listen to offers.

A chance Ejuke cannot waste

The failed transfer to Anderlecht has unexpectedly given Ejuke another opportunity in Spain, one the Super Eagles attacker must now treat as an audition.

Ejuke himself offered the right response after the victory.

“I always try to be available to help the team in any way I can,” he said.

“I wanted to play my game, stay focused, and give it my all.”

That attitude will need to continue long after the excitement of his goal at San Mamés disappears.

Luis Garcia Plaza, head coach of Sevilla celebrates a goal
Luis Garcia Plaza, head coach of Sevilla, celebrates a goal. Copyright: ImagoxJosexLuisxContreras

For Ejuke, the path to a new deal or a permanent place in García Plaza’s plans is to turn his rare one-on-one ability into regular performances and prove that he is willing to commit fully to Sevilla’s project.

His goal has reopened the door. What he does next could determine whether it stays open.

<!-- Author Start -->Adefolahan Guerreiro<!-- Author End -->

Adefolahan Guerreiro

Sports Writer

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Adefulu Adefolahan Guerreiro is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with seven years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. Bilingual in English and Spanish, he takes a stats-led approach to football odds and analysis, with work published on Correctscore Today, PureFootball UK and Royalsportz.