Paul Onuachu: Big blow as Trabzonspor and Super Eagles star set to miss Super Lig kick-off

Paul Onuachu’s long-awaited homecoming has taken an early hit — and Trabzonspor fans are left reeling

Trabzonspor have been dealt a significant early-season setback after new signing Paul Onuachu sustained an ankle injury during a pre-season friendly.

The Nigerian striker, who only just completed a permanent move from Southampton, is now expected to be sidelined for up to four weeks.

The 31-year-old frontman, who spent the 2023–24 campaign on loan at the Black Sea club, suffered the injury in a warm-up match against Azerbaijani side Araz Nakhchivan.

According to a statement released by Trabzonspor's medical team via AbcGazetesi, tests revealed “intense swelling” in his left ankle along with partial ligament damage.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Beşir, head of the club’s health board, confirmed the development, stating:

“Due to the impact, intense edema was detected in Onuachu's left ankle bones and partial injury to his ankle ligaments. Our medical team has begun treatment.”

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This news is a bitter pill for the Trabzonspor faithful, who had celebrated Onuachu’s return following a protracted summer transfer saga.

The towering striker had been a shining light for Southampton last season, finishing as the club's top scorer in the Premier League despite their relegation. Trabzonspor had initially failed to secure him permanently but eventually landed their man this summer.

Onuachu had been expected to be an instant hit again on his return to the Turkish top flight. Onuachu reportedly rejected a number of top European clubs, including Rennes, to reunite with his beloved Trabzonspor.

His injury now threatens to keep him out of the club’s opening fixtures, including a curtain-raiser against newly-promoted Kocaelispor on August 11, followed by matches against Kasimpasa, Antalyaspor, and Samsunspor.

The hope within the camp is that Onuachu will return in top shape to lead the line in what promises to be a challenging season ahead. For now, however, the club’s attack must adapt in his absence.