Former Nigeria international Ogenyi Onazi, who shared the pitch with Simy Nwankwo at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, exclusively told Footy-Africa that he was delighted to see his compatriot back on the field.
The 6’5 striker has taken the next step in his career after signing a two-year deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Orobah, marking his first move outside Europe since turning professional.
“I am happy he is getting a chance to play once again after leaving Italy. Heading to Saudi for someone like him is not a bad move,” said Onazi in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa.
“I have a lot in common with him because we both played in Italy, with the national team, and now he is in Saudi Arabia. Don’t forget, I also played in Saudi Arabia in 2022 with Al-Adalah, so I can say a lot about him.
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“Many people might think it is just Saudi Arabia, but I must tell you that the level is good apart from the money. A lot of players are going to both the Saudi first and second leagues, and it has become more competitive.
“Simy scores goals everywhere he goes, so I am sure it will not be any different at his new club. Maybe if he gets tons of goals for them, he will be able to make a comeback to Europe if he so wishes.” Onazi, who now plays in the lower leagues in Italy stated.
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Simy earned cult-hero status during his time at Crotone, where he scored 66 goals and provided 12 assists in 159 games, cementing his reputation as one of the most reliable forwards in Serie A’s lower tier.
Nwankwo, who was listed in Footy-Africa’s Top 5 Free Agents of the Summer, had been without a club after leaving Italian outfit Salernitana, where his contract was not renewed.
Although there were offers from clubs in Italy and Belgium, none of those moves materialised, leading Simy to embrace a fresh challenge in the Middle East.
The 33-year-old, who has four caps for Nigeria, made his debut for Al-Orobah last week, coming off the bench to feature for 22 minutes in their 1-0 away loss to Al-Bukiryah.
