Forgotten Super Eagles workhorse returns to Turkey in search of career revival

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Super Eagles midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo has signed a two-year deal with Turkish second division side Gençlerbirliği on a free transfer, marking his return to action after a lengthy injury layoff.

The 28-year-old had been sidelined due to injuries during his stint with Aris Thessaloniki in Greece, where he joined in September 2022.

During his time in Greece, Etebo played 28 games in all competitions but did not record any goals or assists.

Forgotten Super Eagles workhorse returns to Turkey in search of career revival
Photo by IMAGO

Prior to his move to Aris Thessaloniki, he was with Stoke City, where his career was also hampered by injuries. This led to several loan spells during his four-year tenure at the club.

Notably, Etebo is no stranger to Turkish football, having previously played for Galatasaray.

Super Eagles veteran hopes for end to injury nightmare

Oghenekaro Etebo's return to Turkey is seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate his career in a familiar environment. He missed most of the 2023/24 campaign but now looks forward to contributing to Gençlerbirliği.

The club announced his signing on their official X account (formerly Twitter), with fans expressing their excitement over the addition of the experienced midfielder.

Internationally, Etebo last played for the Super Eagles in November 2022 in a friendly against Portugal.

Forgotten Super Eagles workhorse returns to Turkey in search of career revival
Photo by IMAGO

He has earned 44 caps for Nigeria and was a key part of the Nigeria team that won a bronze medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016.

Also, he secured a bronze medal with the Super Eagles at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

With his extensive experience and recovery from injuries, Etebo aims to make a significant impact at Gençlerbirliği and get his career back on track.

<!-- Author Start -->Andrew Randa<!-- Author End -->

Andrew Randa

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Andrew Randa is a veteran Nigerian sports journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the beautiful game across Africa. Andrew served as a Media Officer for Nigeria's U-20 Men's National Team for three years, offering a unique perspective on the future stars of Nigerian football. Beyond reporting, Andrew is a pioneer in sports graphics creation within Nigeria. His expertise extends to sports kit design, making him a true multi-faceted talent in the African sports landscape.