Chidera Ejuke, the Nigerian international who once came close to joining English giants Liverpool, is now staring at a new chapter in Spain with Sevilla.
The Super Eagles winger is being tested in a different position as he looks to rebuild his career under a new coach.
Coach Almeyda’s Tactical Gamble
New Sevilla manager Matías Almeyda has been exploring changes ahead of the new La Liga season.
One of those changes involves Ejuke. The winger, known for his electric pace and silky dribbling on the left wing, has recently been used on the right side of the pitch during pre-season games.
Ejuke’s natural spot on the left is currently overcrowded. Sevilla already have Rubén Vargas and rising talent Alfon battling for that same role. This has made Almeyda consider shifting Ejuke to the opposite side to avoid wasting his potential.
A Door Opens as Another May Close
This tactical adjustment comes at a time when Belgian winger Dodi Lukebakio, who owned the right flank last season, could be on his way out.
If Lukebakio is sold, Ejuke may find himself in a more permanent role on the right.
Ejuke, now 26, joined Sevilla on a free transfer after ending his contract with CSKA Moscow due to the ongoing conflict in Russia. His arrival brought excitement, and he showed promise early on by adding directness to Sevilla’s attack.
But his progress was cut short. A muscle injury during a clash with Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium saw him sidelined. He did return before the season ended but found it hard to regain full sharpness.
Last season, Ejuke played in 25 league matches, scoring twice and assisting once. These numbers were not quite up to expectations.
Before joining Sevilla, he had more impressive spells at Royal Antwerp and CSKA Moscow, where he was known for his creativity and threat in the final third.
A Second Chance in Spain
Interestingly, Ejuke’s career could have taken a different turn years ago.
He once trialed with Liverpool during his time in the Netherlands at Heerenveen, but the move did not go through. That missed opportunity seemed to close one door, but now another might be opening in Spain.
In pre-season matches this summer, Ejuke has started to find his rhythm again. He featured in games against Sunderland and Birmingham, showing glimpses of what he can bring from the right.
While it is still early, Sevilla’s coaching staff are watching closely as they decide how to use him this season.
Ejuke is not the only Nigerian player at Sevilla. He is joined by Akor Adams and Kelechi Iheanacho. However, Iheanacho’s future with the club is uncertain as he looks likely to leave.
