Nigerian international Kelechi Nwakali is keen to make his league debut for Barnsley following his summer transfer from Portuguese club GD Chaves. The 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup Golden Ball winner had his debut delayed due to visa issues, but after resolving them, he has started training with his new team.
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Nwakali was on the bench for matches against Sheffield United and Crawley Town but did not feature. With his fitness improving, he aims to integrate into the team fully and start playing regularly. Barnsley is currently third in League One, and Nwakali is focused on making an impact for the team.
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Editorial
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Kelechi Nwakali's return to English football is an exciting development for the player and Barnsley. After showing promise at a young age and winning the Golden Ball at the 2015 U17 World Cup, Nwakali’s career path took him across Europe, but he is now back in England to prove himself again.
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The challenges he faced with visa delays are not uncommon in international transfers, but now that he is training and participating in matches with Barnsley, he has the opportunity to showcase his skills. His previous experience with Arsenal and various loan stints will be as he adjusts to the physical demands of League One.
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Nwakali’s determination to break into the first team is clear. His leadership experience as a former captain of the Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles can provide Barnsley with a mature and composed presence in midfield. The Barnsley faithful will be hoping that Nwakali can make a seamless transition and contribute to the team’s campaign as they aim for promotion.
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For Nigerian football fans, Nwakali’s journey has been one to follow closely. His talent was evident early in his career, and now at 26, he has the experience and maturity to make a lasting impact in European football. If he can stay fit and find his form, his return to England could be the start of a successful new chapter in his career.
Did You Know?
Kelechi Nwakali won the Golden Ball at the 2015 [FIFA U17](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_U-17_World_Cup) World Cup, awarded to the tournament’s best player.
Nwakali was previously signed by Arsenal but spent most of his time on loan at different clubs in Europe.
Barnsley, currently in League One, has ambitions of returning to the Championship, the second tier of English football.
Nwakali has also played in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and Spanish Segunda División, adding to his European experience.
Barnsley’s Professional Development League is aimed at developing young talents and integrating them into the senior squad, which Nwakali is currently part of.