Nigerian international Kelechi Nwakali is growing increasingly frustrated with his lack of first-team opportunities at League One side Barnsley, Footy-Africa can report.
The 27-year-old midfielder has found himself frozen out of the senior squad this season under manager Conor Hourihane.
Despite joining the Tykes on a three-year deal and making 26 appearances during his debut campaign, the former Arsenal academy star is currently training with the reserve team after potential moves in the summer and January windows failed to materialize.
Career in limbo
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, the player’s agent, Mr. Allwell Nwakali, expressed deep disappointment regarding the current standoff at Oakwell.
”He is at Barnsley working hard and training, and it is unfortunate that he hasn’t had the chance to play,” Nwakali’s representative stated. “It is very frustrating because Kelechi is a very talented boy who can contribute to any team.”
”It is difficult to maintain your market value when you aren’t playing, but we remain hopeful of finding the right solutions. If Barnsley want to give him a chance to play, we would be happy, but if not, we will look for other solutions when the transfer window reopens in the summer.”
With only one year remaining on his current contract, the midfielder is reportedly prepared to explore all options, including a permanent exit or running down his deal to leave as a free agent.
Посмотреть эту публикацию в Instagram
”Malicious” media reports
Beyond the pitch, Nwakali’s camp has hit back at what they perceive as a targeted smear campaign by the press, particularly in his native Nigeria. The intermediary claimed that several “malicious” stories regarding the player’s discipline and professional conduct are entirely fabricated.
”The media, especially the local media, has not been fair to him. I don’t know why they continue to write negative stories,” the agent added. “Most of these reports are untrue. I have even contacted some outlets to find out why they are publishing such malicious content.”
All the angles of Kelechi Nwakali’s first goal for Barnsley 😍🇳🇬 @nwakali25 pic.twitter.com/CNk3XdS3ea
— Barnsley FC (@BarnsleyFC) December 15, 2024
When asked if the negative press had hindered Nwakali’s ability to find a new club, the agent remained defiant but admitted it may have impacted his standing with the Super Eagles:
”It hasn’t stopped him from attracting interest from new clubs, but it has perhaps made it more difficult for him to get back into the national team. The primary issue remains a lack of playing time. While team selection is ultimately the coach’s decision, we are not happy with the situation. However, we are confident this phase will soon be over.”
Fallen star seeking redemption
Once the Golden Ball winner at the 2015 U-17 World Cup, Nwakali’s career has been a nomad’s journey through Spain and Portugal before landing in South Yorkshire.
Another super performance by Kelechi 👊🇳🇬 https://t.co/mkQgJKWA5B
— Barnsley FC (@BarnsleyFC) February 26, 2025
For a player of his pedigree, a season spent in the reserves during his prime years is a significant blow to both his club and international ambitions. If a resolution isn’t found by July, a parting of ways seems inevitable for both parties.
