Nigerian winger Hilary Gong has parted ways with Slovakian club Spartak Trnava by mutual consent, bringing an end to a difficult spell with the Fortuna Liga side.
A source close to the player exclusively confirmed the development to Footy-Africa, stressing that the separation was amicable.
“Yes, Hilary has left the club by mutual consent, so there are no issues. It is simply a matter of differences, but there is respect from both parties,” the source said. “For now, he wants to rest and think about his next destination because there is still a lot of football left in him. He is just 27, so he has a lot to offer.”
“To be candid, injuries have not been fair to him, but now he is fit and raring to go. He needs to play regularly to be at his best, and that is one of the reasons why he decided to leave.”
As a free agent, Gong is now free to negotiate with clubs and is expected to assess his options carefully before deciding on his next move.
“I will let you know as soon as something comes up. You will be the first to know,” the source added.
Gong, 27, began his professional career abroad after leaving Golden Boy Soccer Academy in Jos, Nigeria, to join Slovak club AS Trenčín during the 2017/18 season.
His performances in Slovakia earned him a move to the Netherlands, where he signed for Vitesse Arnhem. He subsequently had spells with FK Haugesund in Norway, Ararat-Armenia in Armenia and Widzew Łódź in Poland before eventually joining Spartak Trnava.
However, his time with the Slovak club was disrupted by injuries, limiting his opportunities to establish himself as a regular in the team.
Gong made just one appearance for Spartak Trnava this season before the two parties agreed to terminate his contract.
In total, the Nigerian made 24 appearances for the club, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. He also shared the dressing room with compatriot and fellow Jos-born player Philip Azango.
