Contrasting Nigerian fortunes: FC Cincinnati extend Nwobodo’s deal, retain Awaziem, release Akpunonu

Major League Soccer side FC Cincinnati has extended Obinna Nwobodo’s contract, ensuring the Nigerian midfielder will remain with the club through the 2025 season, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Rangers International star joined Cincinnati in 2022 from Turkish club Göztepe and has become a vital part of the squad.

Since his arrival, Nwobodo has made 80 appearances and scored twice.

His consistent performances have earned him a spot among the retained players, as confirmed by the club on Monday.

“FC Cincinnati has exercised the contract options on Obinna Nwobodo, Miles Robinson, and Sergio Santos,” the club announced via a statement.

Nwobodo was part of the victorious Rangers team that won the Nigerian Premier Football League title in 2017.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem has also been retained by FC Cincinnati.

Awaziem, who joined Cincinnati after leaving Portuguese side Boavista, has been instrumental for the team, contributing significantly to their strong league performance.

The former FC Porto defender was also a part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

However, American center-back of Nigerian descent, Joey Akpunonu will not be returning to FC Cincinnati.

The 2023 MLS SuperDraft pick was loaned to Hartford Athletic in the USL Championship for the 2024 season but has now seen his contract option declined.

Akpunonu made his professional debut in Cincinnati’s U.S. Open Cup victory over Louisville City FC in April 2023 and was part of the squad that secured the 2023 MLS Supporters' Shield.