Over the years, a few Nigerian stars have worn the Montpellier shirt with pride. From title-winning moments to explosive debuts, these players brought pride to La Paillade while flying the Nigerian flag.
In this article, Footynaija.com ranks the top three Nigerian footballers in Montpellier’s history.
3. Egutu Oliseh
Egutu Oliseh arrived at Montpellier in 2007, at a time when the club was still rebuilding in Ligue 2. The Nigerian midfielder, known for his work rate and ability to hold the ball, played 43 times and scored twice in the 2007–08 season.
Though he never got the chance to feature in Ligue 1 for the club, Oliseh brought energy and consistency to the squad during a demanding campaign. He may not have been as high-profile as others, but his short stint left a steady impression on Montpellier’s push toward re-establishing themselves in the top flight.
2. Akor Adams
Akor Jerome Adams made headlines immediately after his arrival in August 2023. Signed from Lillestrøm SK, the striker hit the ground running with a brace on his Ligue 1 debut against Le Havre. That match ended 2–2, and it set the tone for what looked like a breakout season.
In his debut Ligue 1 campaign (2023–24), Adams scored 8 eague goals. And by the time he left for Spanish side Sevilla in January, 2025, he had notched 13 goals in 49 appearances, proving to be a reliable presence in attack—even during a tough period for Montpellier.
1. John Utaka
There is no debate here. John Chukwudi Utaka is the most iconic Nigerian to play for Montpellier. The former Portsmouth and Rennes man joined La Paillade in January 2011 and went on to play a decisive role in the club’s historic 2011–12 Ligue 1 title triumph.
In that season, Utaka featured in 40matches and scored 8 goals, including a dramatic brace on the final day against Auxerre that secured Montpellier’s first-ever league title. He also formed a dangerous attacking trio with Olivier Giroud and Younès Belhanda.
Across his Montpellier stint, Utaka made 68 league appearances and scored 12 goals. His clutch performances and contribution to the club’s greatest moment ensure his legacy is etched in Montpellier history.