Official: Forgotten Super Eagles star joins MFK Zemplín Michalovce after 18 months without a club

MFK Zemplín Michalovce have confirmed the signing of Nigerian international Kingsley Madu, bringing the left-back back into professional football after an 18-month hiatus, Soccernet.football reports.

The Slovak First Football League club announced the deal on their official website, revealing that the 29-year-old has signed a contract until the summer of 2026, with an option to extend for an additional season.

Madu, who last played for AS Trenčín in the 2022–2023 season, has been without a club since leaving the Slovak side.

His move to Michalovce marks a significant step in restarting his career, particularly as he brings extensive experience to his new team, having made over 100 appearances in Slovakia’s top division and scoring five goals.

In his first interview as a Michalovce player, Madu expressed optimism and determination:

“I want to work hard and help the team. I hope that we secure a place in the top six and maybe even fight for the European Cup. MFK Zemplín is a great club with good players who want to play football. I am very happy that I can represent Michalovce. I am extremely happy that I can start my career again after a long time.”

Madu joins a growing Nigerian contingent at Michalovce, alongside compatriots Abdul Zubair and Issa Adekunle. His addition is expected to bolster the squad’s ambitions in the league.

The left-back began his professional journey with AS Trenčín in 2014, enjoying success that included back-to-back domestic doubles in the 2014–15 and 2015–16 seasons. His impressive performances earned him a spot in Nigeria’s squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where the team clinched a bronze medal.

Following stints in Belgium with SV Zulte Waregem and KSV Roeselare, and a brief spell at Odense BK in Denmark, Madu returned to Trenčín in 2019. However, his career stalled after leaving the club in 2023.

Madu, who has three caps for Nigeria, last represented the Super Eagles in a friendly against Mali in May 2016.

Now, he aims to rediscover his form and contribute to Michalovce’s quest for success.