Trabzonspor manager, Abdullah Avcı, has reassured both fans of the club and supporters of the Super Eagles by confirming that the injury suffered by Nigerian international Paul Onuachu is not serious.
Onuachu sustained an injury during the second half of Trabzonpor's 4-0 victory against Fatih Karagümrük in the Turkish Cup semifinals at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium.
The Southampton loanee landed awkwardly after an aerial duel with Fatih Karagümrük central defender Federico Ceccherini in the 57th minute and immediately signaled for medical attention.
After a brief treatment period, he had to be assisted off the field by a member of Trabzonspor's staff and was substituted by Umut Bozok in the 60th minute.
This setback comes shortly after Onuachu's recovery from a fractured forearm, which sidelined him for eight weeks.
Prior to his injury, the tall striker scored Trabzonspor's opening goal in the 54th minute, connecting with a cross from Thomas Meunier.
Avcı's update on Paul Onuachu's injury
Speaking to reporters after the match, Avcı expressed relief over the severity of the injury, stating, “We learned that it is not a serious condition, it is a spasm-like condition. I think it will be ready by the end of the week.”
Onuachu's future: what lies ahead?
Onuachu's career has undergone a resurgence since he joined Trabzonspor on a one-year loan deal from Southampton last year.
The 29-year-old has made a significant impact in Turkey, playing a pivotal role in Trabzonspor's climb to third place in the league standings.
Despite a seven-week absence due to a left arm fracture, the Nigerian international has managed to contribute 12 goals and four assists across all competitions this season.
Onuachu showcased his talent once again in the recent 4-2 victory against Gazisehir Gaziantep in the Super Lig, delivering a remarkable hat-trick and earning the title of man of the match.
Regarding Onuachu's future at Trabzonspor, a recent report from Sabah suggests that the club is exploring new strategies to keep him.
Their plan involves extending the loan deal for the Nigerian international by an additional season.
Trabzonspor officials intend to discuss this proposal with representatives from Southampton in the near future.
Onuachu's existing contract with Southampton runs until 2026, but it remains uncertain whether the club is open to another loan arrangement.
Reportedly, Southampton has set an asking price of €12 million (£10.3 million) for the striker, while Trabzonspor is prepared to offer €10 million (£8.6 million).
This move by Southampton aims to recover a significant portion of the £18 million fee they spent to acquire him a year ago.
If an agreement regarding the former Genk player cannot be reached, the report indicates that Trabzonspor will explore alternative options in the transfer market and Onuachu's compatriot is high on Trabzonspor's wish list.
According to British transfer expert Dean Jones, Southampton is facing an important decision regarding the future.
“Southampton need to make a big call up on onuachu and it could be a win-win situation. He scored a hat-trick in Turkey after returning from injury and his critics suddenly had to stay quiet. His goals are back. He's been pretty good this season and that's for the Saints A good new.”
“If they decide to recall him, they will have a striker with renewed confidence and determination. But if they decide he still doesn't suit their style, at least his transfer potential could be seen as more viable. Because he has shown he can hold and score goals.”
Goztepe, a newly-promoted Turkish Super Lig side, is also interested in signing Onuachu.
Why the Super Eagles will need a fit Onuachu for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
As the Super Eagles gear up for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin, the importance of having a fit and firing Paul Onuachu in their ranks cannot be overstated.
Onuachu's imposing presence and aerial prowess provide the Super Eagles with a unique attacking dimension. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall, he poses a constant threat to opposition defenses, often dominating aerial duels and creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game adds a vital dimension to Nigeria's attacking play, particularly in high-pressure matches.
In a competitive group where every point matters, having a fit and in-form Onuachu leading the line could be the difference between success and disappointment.
His ability to deliver match-winning performances, as demonstrated in his recent hat-trick against Gazisehir Gaziantep, can inspire his teammates and instill confidence in the squad.
Moreover, Onuachu's presence could provide tactical flexibility for the Nigerian team. His unique skill set allows the coaching staff to adapt their approach, whether opting for a direct style of play to capitalise on his aerial prowess or utilising his hold-up play to involve midfielders and wingers in the build-up.
Onuachu was a member of the Super Eagles team that placed second in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024).
Onuachu, initially excluded from Jose Peseiro's AFCON squad, seized an opportunity to play in Ivory Coast by stepping in for the reportedly injured Umar Sadiq, making substitute appearances for the Super Eagles.
