Nigeria Players Abroad
Saint Etienne release three Nigerians after retaining French topflight status
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
French newcomers Saint Etienne has decided not to renew the contracts of 14 players from their squad ahead of 2024/2025 D1 Arkema women’s top-flight season.
This decision follows the team’s successful campaign, retaining their topflight status, having finished seventh with 29 points from 22 matches during the 2023/2024 season.
Among those released are three Nigerian players: goalkeeper Yewande Balogun, midfielder Regina Otu, and defender Amanda Mbadi, with the Etienne based outfit, expressing gratitude for their contributions and wished them success in their future careers.
Balogun, a 34-year-old Nigerian international goalkeeper, joined Saint Etienne in the summer of 2022. She featured in five matches for the club during her tenure.
Amanda Mbadi, who arrived from Thonon Évian last summer, played in 14 matches this season. Her defensive skills were an asset to the team’s campaign.
Midfielder Regina Otu played a significant role in Saint Etienne’s successful D2 title run, bringing reliability and experience to the squad. She starred in 20 matches, contributing significantly to the team’s promotion.
The released players are now free agents and eligible to negotiate with other clubs for potential transfers. Saint Etienne’s decision to part ways with these players marks a strategic move as they prepare to compete in the top flight next season.
