Nigerian midfielder Onuche Ogbelu has completed a transfer to Libyan giants Al Ittihad from Tunisian powerhouse Espérance Sportive de Tunis, drawing the curtain on a highly successful stint in Tunisia.
The 22-year-old had been strongly linked with a move to Al Ahli Tripoli, with reports indicating advanced negotiations and a lucrative offer said to be worth $3.5 million per season. However, Al Ittihad moved decisively to hijack the deal, reaching an agreement with Espérance and the player’s representatives. The transfer fee has not been officially disclosed.
Silverware and Impact in Tunisia
Ogbelu departs Espérance after making over 75 appearances since joining the club on September 30, 2023, establishing himself as a key figure in midfield.
During his time with the Tunis-based club, he secured:
- Two Tunisian Ligue 1 titles
- One Tunisian Cup title: scoring the decisive goal in the 2025 final
- One Tunisian Super Cup
He also featured in the FIFA Club World Cup and played a prominent role in Espérance’s run to the 2024 CAF Champions League final, where they narrowly lost to Egypt’s Al Ahly.
International Pedigree
A former Nigeria U-20 international, Ogbelu represented the country at the:
- 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations (third-place finish)
- 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina
His performances at the youth international level further enhanced his profile as one of Nigeria’s emerging midfield prospects.
Career Trajectory
Ogbelu began his professional career with Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League in 2022 before earning his move to North Africa. His progression from the NPFL to continental competition and now to one of Libya’s biggest clubs underscores a steady upward trajectory.
With his move to Al Ittihad, Ogbelu embarks on a new chapter, bringing experience, a silverware pedigree, and continental exposure to the Libyan side as they aim to strengthen their domestic and African ambitions.
