The Garnets are on the verge of being booted out of Italy’s top-flight, which could leave the future of their Nigerian stars in doubt
Two Nigerian stars, Simy Nwankwo and Joel Obi, face an uncertain future after Italy’s Football Federation (FIGC) gave Salernitana two weeks to find a new owner or face expulsion from the Italian Serie A.
Salernitana are back in Italy’s top-flight after 22-years away, but their stay could be short-lived even before the season is over.
The Garnets are currently owned by Lazio president Claudio Lotito, but according to Serie A rules, an owner cannot own two clubs in the league due to a conflict of interest.
Salernitana were aware of this on their return, but they have not been able to find a buyer. And with the season almost at the halfway stage, the FIGC has given them two weeks ultimatum to find a new owner or get expelled from the league.
This situation leaves the future of their players in doubt, including Simy and Obi. Both players joined the club in the summer, with Simy moving from Crotone on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.
At the same time, Obi signed a one-year deal with the club after his contract with Chievo Verona expired last season.
But with the latest development, both players may not be able to fulfil the duration of their contract unless the Garnets find a new owner.
Simy is Nigeria’s record scorer in the Italian top-flight after scoring 20 league goals for Crotone last season. But he has been unable to replicate the form this season with just one goal in 18 league appearances for his new club.
Obi has also featured regularly for the side, with 16 league appearances to his name.
Regardless of whether they get a new owner, both players are on course for relegation as Salernitana sit at the bottom of the table with just eight points from 18 games.
