Nigerian international midfielder Kelechi Nwakali has completed a permanent move to Cypriot First Division side Omonia 29 Maiou, signing a one-year contract for the 2026/27 season.
The 28-year-old joins the Nicosia-based club after leaving English League One side Barnsley by mutual consent. He becomes the second Nigerian international at Omonia 29 Maiou following the recent arrival of Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.
Nwakali, born in Owerri on June 5, 1998, first gained international recognition as captain of Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets team that won the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile. He was outstanding throughout the tournament and won the Golden Ball award as the competition’s best player.
His performances earned him a move to Arsenal, although he never made a first-team appearance for the Premier League club due largely to work-permit issues. He subsequently gained valuable European experience during loan spells with Dutch sides MVV Maastricht and VVV-Venlo, as well as Portuguese club Porto B.
The midfielder later established himself in Spanish football, representing Huesca, Alcorcón and Ponferradina. At Huesca, he played a role in the club’s promotion campaign before moving on to Portuguese side Chaves.
Nwakali joined Barnsley in August 2024 on a three-year contract. However, his time with the English club was disrupted by limited playing opportunities, with the midfielder making around 30 appearances across two seasons and scoring twice.
His move to Omonia 29 Maiou now provides the former Arsenal prospect with an opportunity to revive his career and secure regular football in Cyprus.
The Cypriot club will hope Nwakali’s technical ability, experience and creativity can strengthen its midfield as it prepares for the new campaign.
Nwakali is expected to join up with his new teammates in the coming days, with his contract running until May 2027.
