Former Nigerian national team attacking midfielder and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champion Sunday Mba has backed his compatriot Moses Simon to impress at newly promoted French Ligue 1 side Paris FC, following his move from FC Nantes.
The Nigerian winger completed his medical tests on Tuesday and was unveiled by the club on a three-year contract today. He becomes part of a major rebuilding process at Paris FC, who are aiming to make a strong impression in their maiden top-flight campaign.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa on Wednesday, Mba—who previously played in France for Bastia—expressed confidence that the 29-year-old will thrive at his new club, thanks to the wealth of experience he has gained over the years in France.
“It’s a big move for Paris FC, and it sends a major statement about their desire to compete in the top tier,” Mba said. “Moses [Simon] is a top player, and he was among the best in the league last season while at Nantes. I think he’ll continue in the same vein and will be a hit.”
“He has proven his quality over the years and still has a lot to offer at the highest level. I believe he will play a key role in helping them achieve their goal—which, in my opinion, should be survival. That’s a very achievable target, and they’ve signed the right profile for it. This type of signing can also help the club attract other players of similar caliber, so it’s definitely a positive move,” he added.
Simon was a standout performer in the recently concluded campaign, scoring eight goals and providing 10 assists in just 33 appearances across Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. During his six seasons at Nantes, he featured in 201 matches, scoring 37 goals and contributing 40 assists.
It is worth noting that Simon joined Nantes from Spanish La Liga outfit Levante, where he spent one season. The 29-year-old, whose current Transfermarkt valuation is estimated at €12 million, also previously played for KAA Gent in Belgium and AS Trenčín in Slovakia.
On the international stage, Simon remains one of the most senior players in the current Super Eagles squad. He has earned 80 caps, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists—a solid contribution for the national team.
