Paul Onuachu is currently the most clinical African striker in world football. After finding the net against Galatasaray, the 31-year-old has taken his league tally to a staggering 22 goals this season, six clear of his nearest rival, Eldor Shomurodov.
Yet, despite his dominance in the Turkish Super Lig with Trabzonspor, a persistent question hangs over the giant forward: why can he not replicate this form for Nigeria?
Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has expressed belief that the answer lies in the unique, high-pressure environment of international football, rather than a lack of ability.
The ‘Point Man’ luxury
At club level, Onuachu has become the focal point of the Trabzonspor attack. His physical profile, standing at 6ft 7in allows him to dominate defenders in a way he struggled to do during a difficult spell at Southampton.
“He is an excellent striker, and his quality is a major reason he’s finding the back of the net consistently,” Lawal exclusively told Footy-Africa. “While some might say his move to Turkey involved a bit of luck, he’s now scoring the goals that eluded him at Southampton.”
Lawal noted that Onuachu’s tactical versatility is key to his success in Trabzon. “His height makes him an ideal ‘point man,’ capable of leading the line alone or playing with his back to the goal. I’m happy for him; his market value is rising along with his confidence.”
“If he decides to move on, this current form will serve him well.”
Onazi hails Nigerian trio as Trabzonspor beat Galatasaray in Turkish Super League
The ‘Different Beast’
The disparity between Onuachu’s club form and his international output has led to calls for coach Eric Chelle to hand him a more prominent role, rather than using him as a late substitute. However, Lawal warns that the Super Eagles environment offers little room for the “rhythm” Onuachu enjoys in Turkey.
“It’s important to remember that national team football is a different ball game. Even in my day, we had strikers like Jonathan Akpoborie, who struggled internationally but would return to his club and score a brace or a hat-trick immediately.”
Lawal explained that the primary obstacle for Onuachu is the lack of preparation time during international windows.
“At club level, you have the luxury of time and consistent minutes to find your rhythm. With the national team, you don’t have time to gel; you might only get two or three sessions before a match. If you don’t produce instantly, you risk being dropped. At a club, you have the luxury of time and consistent minutes to find your rhythm.”
Four clubs Paul Onuachu could join amid summer exit from Trabzonspor
What’s next for Onuachu?
With 22 goals already secured this term, Onuachu is expected to be the subject of significant transfer interest this summer.
While his place in the starting XI for the Super Eagles remains a subject of intense debate, his value to the squad is undisputed.
“Regardless, he remains an important player for the country,” Lawal concluded. “I’m sure the coach is keeping a close eye on him,” Lawal concluded.
