Official: Super Eagles star seals permanent move to Empoli

The Nigerian international opens a new chapter of his career in Italy

With a statement on their official website, Serie A’s Empoli have announced the signing of Super Eagles defender Tyronne Ebuehi on a permanent deal from Benfica.

Ebuehi was for four years on the books of Portuguese giants Benfica, having signed from ADO Den Haag in 2018.

The full-back, however, did not play a single game for the Primeira Liga side due to a combination of factors, including a lengthy injury.

Ebuehi spent last season on loan at Venezia, featuring in 19 Serie A games.

His best effort could not help the Winged Lions escape relegation, but it was enough to convince Empoli of the 26-year-old’s quality.

Empoli have handed Ebuehi a three-year contract that will keep the Nigerian international at the Stadio Carlo Castellani until June 2025.

What to expect of Ebuehi

At 26, Ebuehi is one of Nigeria’s most experienced full-backs in Europe. Ebuehi appeared in 111 Eredivisie matches across spells at ADO Den Haag and FC Twente.

Noted for his high concentration level during matches, Ebuehi is not particularly a strong tackler, rarely diving into tackles.

The defender is, however, rated for his versatility as he can be deployed either as a right-back or as a left-back.

A Nigerian international since making his debut in November 2017, Ebuehi has played ten matches for the Super Eagles.

He was at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon with Nigeria.

With Ebuehi’s addition, Empoli will aim to improve on their 14th-place finish in the Italian Serie A last term.