The Nigerian striker was once referred to as a goal machine, but it seems like all the encomiums he gathered came too soon
Super Eagles striker Simy Nwankwo is one of the players that Salernitana would be looking to get off their books in this summer transfer, but it doesn’t seem like it would be an easy task.
Simy’s situation is familiar, but could still cause one to marvel at the sheer unpredictability of football.
Calling the Nigeria international a goal machine was not out of place when he banged in 20 goals in 38 appearances for relegated Crotone in the Italian top-flight two seasons ago.
Following Crotone’s relegation, Simy was one of the most sought-after commodities in the market particularly among the mid-table Serie A sides. In fact, his value rose to as much as €8 million as per Transfermarkt.
Eventually, it was newly-promoted Salernitana that had the last laugh, signing Simy on loan, before making the deal permanent six months later.
However, was Simy’s procurement really a cause to laugh for Salernitana?
Last season, he was supposed to be the top marksman for Salernitana who were looking to stay alive in the Serie A after a 21-year absence.
Unfortunately, the Garnets soon realized that the 30-year-old could not deliver on his task, as he scored a paltry one goal in 19 league appearances.
Midway into the season, Salernitana were drowning in relegation waters and gasping for breath. Still, they let Simy go on loan to Serie B strugglers Parma.
The story was identical at Parma, as the Nigerian striker returned a solitary goal in 12 appearances.
Fortunately, Salernitana escaped relegation by the skin of their teeth, with former Crotone manager Davide Nicola performing wonders with the team in the second half of the season.
Upon his return at the end of the season, Salernitana affirmed that they wanted to let Simy go. Nonetheless, the former Portimonense man has not attracted many suitors.
According to Parmalive as per Gazzetta dello Sport, if Salernitana fail to find a buyer, Simy could remain at the club. It would be a good thing for the 30-year-old as it would give him another shot at top-flight football.
Also, another plus for Simy is that he has a good history with Nicola. Nicola was Crotone’s coach in 2017, and Simy, playing under him recorded five goals in 31 games.
The Nigerian striker has to take advantage of that and prove himself worthy to his boss. He has to take the shot at redemption and impress the Italian tactician.
Otherwise, one more bad season would surely land him in the unwanted list of “one-season wonders”.
