Chidozie Awaziem Returns to FC Nantes
Chidozie Awaziem has officially rejoined FC Nantes, a club in France’s top league, Ligue 1. This will be his second time playing for the team.
The 28-year-old Nigerian defender signed a three-year contract with Nantes after leaving Major League Soccer side Colorado Rapids. He had only joined the Rapids from FC Cincinnati in December last year.
Awaziem is returning to a club he knows well. He first played for Nantes during the 2018–19 season, when he was on loan from FC Porto. During that time, he made 23 appearances and scored one goal.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Awaziem said he was happy to return:
“When the chance came, I didn’t think twice. Nantes feels like home to me. The people are kind, the club is fantastic, and I was really excited to come back.”
He also shared his hopes for the future:
“I want to help the team win, reach its goals, and compete at the top level. My aim is to bring FC Nantes back to where it belongs.”
Awaziem brings a lot of experience with him. He has played in several countries including Turkey, Spain, Croatia, and the USA, after starting his career in Portugal.
He has also represented Nigeria on the international stage. He played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and has featured in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019, 2021, and 2023.
His experience could be a big help to FC Nantes, who have faced relegation battles in recent seasons.
