French Ligue 1 club FC Nantes have quietly built a reputation by signing Nigerian players over the years, Soccernet.ng reports.
By this, they have bolstered their attacks and their defence with Nigerian talents. These players have left their mark on the Yellow and Green, however.
Most recently, Nantes welcomed back Chidozie Awaziem, who has a wealth of international and club experience, to their club.
His return comes just weeks after the departure of long-serving forward Moses Simon.
A look at the Nigerian players who have played for FC Nantes:
1. Samson Siasia
One of the first Nigerian players to play for Nantes was Samson Siasia. The former Nigeria U-23 head coach featured for the club between 1993 and 1995, scoring four goals in his 40 appearances for the club. In 1994-95, he became a league champion.
1993.
Samson Siasia (Nantes) and Zinedine Zidane (Bordeaux) pic.twitter.com/dB42dObqKM
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The former Super Eagles striker made a notable impact before going on to become Nigeria’s national team coach. With no doubt, his time in France helped pave the way for other Nigerian players in Ligue 1.
2. Moses Simon
Simon is arguably the most iconic Nigerian to wear the Nantes shirt. He joined the club in 2019, and over six seasons, he became a fan favourite, scoring 37 goals and making 42 assists in his 201 appearances for the club.
Simon was instrumental in the club’s 2022 Coupe de France triumph and in helping them avoid relegation during difficult campaigns.
3. Chidozie Awaziem
After an impressive loan spell during the 2017/18 season, Awaziem has now returned to Nantes on a permanent deal from the MLS.
The Super Eagles defender previously played 23 matches and scored once in his first stint with the French side, and he will be looking to make an impressive impact in his return to the La Beaujoire Stadium.