Leon Balogun at Rangers. Copyright: ImagoxJamiexJohnstonx
Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has joined Hungarian champions ETO Gyor, Soccernet.ng reports.
Balogun has enjoyed a notably nomadic career. Last season, the 38-year-old center-back played for Cypriot club Aris Limassol, where he featured in 22 league games before parting ways with the club at the end of the campaign.
Now, he has moved to Hungary to join the reigning league champions. ETO Gyor secured their fifth league title last season, dethroning regular powerhouses Ferencvaros and Puskas Academy. They are now looking to bolster their squad to defend their domestic crown and compete in Europe.
Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers during a training session at Rangers, (Photo credit: Imago)
After being knocked out of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, the club has shifted its focus to the UEFA Conference League.
Balogun is expected to bring a wealth of experience, having previously played for prominent clubs such as Brighton, Mainz, and Rangers, alongside his background as a Nigerian international.
What Leon Balogun Said After Completing ETO Gyor Transfer
Nigeria's Leon Balogun. (Photo by ImagoxSergei Bobylev/TASS)
Leon Balogun has joined ETO Gyor on a one-year deal that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2027.
Following his transfer, he expressed excitement about donning the colors of the Hungarian champions. He noted that his primary goal is to establish high standards at the club and share his veteran experience with the team.
”I am very happy to be a player of ETO FC, as this is an extremely exciting project,” Balogun said.
”I think the team has already shown what it is capable of in the first few matches, but now it is important to set and maintain the right standards so that we can continue to build on the successes of last season.
”I can't wait to join the group and contribute my experience and strengths both on and off the pitch.”
Nigerian defender Leon Balogun Copyright: xAndrewxMilliganx 78176742
ETO Gyor will be the 13th club of Balogun's professional career, and he will be hoping to lead them to more silverware this season.
The 38-year-old earned 48 caps for the Super Eagles. Although he has never officially announced his retirement, it is widely assumed he has played his final game for Nigeria, with his last appearance dating back to 2022.
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