Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem has sealed a return to the Turkish Süper Lig after completing a permanent move to Konyaspor from French side Nantes, Trybal News reports.
The 29-year-old signed a two-year contract with the Green-Whites and was officially unveiled on Wednesday during a signing ceremony held at the Konyaspor Museum inside the MEDAŞ Konya Büyükşehir Stadium. Club official Ali Çamgöz represented Konyaspor at the ceremony as the Nigerian defender was introduced as one of the club’s key additions ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Awaziem returns to familiar surroundings following previous spells with Çaykur Rizespor and Alanyaspor, where he established himself as one of the league’s reliable central defenders. His experience in Turkish football is expected to play a significant role as Konyaspor strengthen their squad for the new campaign.
The move comes after a season with Nantes, where Awaziem remained a regular starter despite the French club’s relegation from Ligue 1. He featured in 26 league matches, contributing one goal and two assists, attracting interest from several clubs before opting for a return to Turkey.
A product of El Kanemi Warriors, Awaziem has built an extensive European career since joining Portuguese giants Porto in 2014. The experienced defender has gone on to represent Nantes, Leganés, Boavista, Hajduk Split, FC Cincinnati, Colorado Rapids, as well as his previous Turkish clubs, gaining valuable experience across Portugal, France, Spain, Croatia, the United States and Turkey.
His arrival is viewed as an important acquisition for Konyaspor, who had identified the Nigerian international as a priority defensive target during the summer transfer window. French media reports indicate the Turkish outfit paid a fee in the region of €1 million to secure his services from Nantes.
Awaziem’s transfer also strengthens Nigeria’s growing representation in Turkish football, with several Super Eagles stars set to feature in the Süper Lig this season. The experienced centre-back will now be aiming to rediscover his best form at club level as he looks to remain firmly in contention for Nigeria’s upcoming international assignments.
