Super Eagles transfer: Why Frosinone is perfect next step for Nigeria’s Kevin Akpoguma

Super Eagles defender Kevin Akpoguma is set to seal a move to Italian side Frosinone after leaving Bundesliga club Hoffenheim as a free agent, Afrik-Foot reports.

It is a transfer that could breathe new life into both Akpoguma’s club and international career. According to respected Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio and Sky Sport Italia, the 31-year-old centre-back has agreed to make the first move of his professional career outside Germany. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming days after both parties reached an agreement over personal terms.

Akpoguma officially became a free agent at the end of June 2026 when his contract with Hoffenheim expired. His departure brought an end to a remarkable 13-year association with the German club, where he rose through the youth ranks before becoming one of their most experienced defenders.

Throughout his career in Germany, Akpoguma also represented Karlsruher SC, Fortuna Düsseldorf and Hannover 96 on loan before establishing himself as a regular at Hoffenheim. During that period, he made 179 Bundesliga appearances and also gained valuable experience in both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League.

Now, after spending his entire professional career in Germany, the Nigerian international is preparing for a new challenge in Serie A.

Why Akpoguma chose Frosinone after leaving Hoffenheim

The move comes after a difficult final season at Hoffenheim, where Akpoguma struggled for regular playing time. Midway through the 2025-26 campaign, both the defender and the Bundesliga club reportedly agreed not to renew his contract. Hoffenheim’s management had begun focusing on younger players as part of a long-term rebuilding project, leaving the experienced Nigerian with fewer opportunities.

As a result, Akpoguma featured just eight times for the first team throughout the season, a dramatic decline compared to previous years when he was a trusted club icon. With his playing time reduced, a fresh start became the best solution for both sides.

Frosinone quickly emerged as the ideal destination. Head coach Massimiliano Alvini is looking to strengthen his defensive unit with experienced players capable of organizing the back line. His tactical approach often asks defenders to stay composed while building attacks from deep and remain disciplined when defending large spaces.

Akpoguma’s experience at the highest level of German football made him an attractive option. Having played against top clubs in Germany and Europe, the Super Eagles star brings leadership, tactical awareness and calmness under pressure. These are qualities Frosinone believe can help stabilize their defence throughout the Serie A season.

The move also represents an exciting personal milestone. For the first time since beginning his senior career, Akpoguma will test himself in a top league outside of Germany. Serie A has built a global reputation for producing elite defenders, and the competition offers the experienced centre-back an opportunity to develop even further while playing regular football again.

Why the transfer could boost his Super Eagles hopes

Akpoguma’s move to Italy could also have a major impact on his international future with Nigeria.

The defender has not played for the Super Eagles since September 2023 after falling out of the national team picture because of limited minutes at club level. His lack of regular football made it difficult to compete with defenders who were playing consistently across Europe.

The 31-year-old has earned eight senior caps for Nigeria and has previously admitted his disappointment at missing recent call-ups. However, he has also made it clear that he still hopes to return to the national team. The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations presents him with a first opportunity to represent Nigeria at a major tournament.

A successful spell at Frosinone could give him exactly that opportunity. The biggest requirement for any defender hoping to impress the Super Eagles coaching staff is consistent performances every week. If Akpoguma secures a regular starting place under Alvini, he will regain the sharpness, confidence and match fitness that have been missing over the past year.

Playing in Serie A could also strengthen his tactical profile. Italian football places enormous emphasis on defensive positioning, organization and decision-making. Regular exposure to those demands would make Akpoguma an even stronger option for Nigeria, especially because the Super Eagles often switch between a four-man defence and a back-three system depending on the opposition.

His versatility is another advantage. Akpoguma has shown throughout his career that he can operate as a central defender or on the right side of defence, giving the national team additional tactical flexibility. With several experienced Super Eagles defenders entering the latter stages of their careers and competition for places remaining fierce, regular football in Serie A could quickly move Akpoguma back into contention.

The proposed Frosinone move is a chance for Akpoguma to restart his career, prove himself in a new country and fight for a place in Nigeria’s squad once again.