Michael Uchebo: Everything you need to know about the latest Super Eagles star to return to the NPFL

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Rangers International, have completed the signing of former Super Eagles striker, Michael Uchebo, marking another significant return to the domestic league. The 34-year-old forward, who previously played for the Flying Antelopes in 2008-2009, has rejoined the club ahead of the second stanza of the 2024/2025 season.

Uchebo’s return to Rangers is a notable one, as it comes after a successful career in Europe, with his last club being Portuguese side, Boavista. The towering striker’s move adds to the growing list of high-profile Super Eagles stars making their way back to the NPFL after years abroad. Uchebo’s signing is the third for Rangers this transfer window, following the arrivals of Michael Okechukwu Uchebo, and more recently, Ejike Uzoechi and Patrick Egeonu from Sporting Lagos.

A Journey Through Europe

Uchebo’s career started at Enugu Rangers, where he spent his early professional years. His impressive performances at the Coal City club earned him a move to VVV Venlo in the Netherlands in 2009. Known for his physicality and aerial prowess, he quickly became a target man up front, earning comparisons to Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu.

In 2011, Uchebo caught the eye of English club Stoke City, who offered him a trial. Although he didn’t secure a permanent move, Uchebo continued to make strides in Europe. He later moved to Cercle Brugge in Belgium before signing for Boavista in Portugal in 2014. During his time with Boavista, Uchebo showcased his talents, including scoring in his first match for the club. However, injuries and limited game time eventually led to his departure from European football.

Super Eagles Career

Uchebo’s international career saw him make five appearances for the Super Eagles, scoring once. He was part of the Nigeria U-20 team in 2008 and 2009, showcasing his talent on the continental stage. His senior debut for Nigeria came in 2014 during a friendly against Mexico, followed by a goal-scoring performance in a 2-2 draw against Scotland. Despite a relatively brief international career, Uchebo’s talent was clear, and he left a lasting impression during his time in the national team setup.

A New Chapter with Rangers

Now back at Rangers, Uchebo is expected to bring his wealth of experience and goal-scoring ability to the team. His return adds depth to the squad as they prepare for the challenges of the second half of the season. Coach Abdul Maikaba will be hoping that the veteran striker can help bolster the Flying Antelopes’ attack and push them towards another NPFL title.

The return of Uchebo also adds to the growing trend of former Super Eagles players rejoining the NPFL. Recent signings such as Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi at Kano Pillars, along with Brown Ideye’s move to Enyimba, demonstrate the growing allure of domestic football in Nigeria. The influx of these experienced players into the NPFL raises the profile of the league and strengthens its competitiveness.

With Uchebo now back in the fold, Rangers will look to build on their strong start to the season, as the experienced forward aims to make an impact in his second stint with the club.

The NPFL is Watching

As the NPFL continues to attract former Super Eagles stars, the return of Michael Uchebo signals a new era for the league, one where experienced players are eager to contribute to the development of Nigerian football. Uchebo’s move to Rangers, coupled with the recent signings of Uzoechi and Egeonu, highlights the growing trend of top-tier talent returning to the local league, and fans can expect an exciting second half of the season as these seasoned professionals look to make their mark.

As the Flying Antelopes prepare for the second stanza, Uchebo’s experience and pedigree could prove to be the missing link in their quest for another NPFL crown. For now, Nigerian football fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Uchebo’s career as he returns to the league that helped shape his journey.