Awaziem seals Konyaspor switch as former MLS defender returns to Turkey

Chidozie Awaziem has rejoined Turkish football with a move to Konyaspor from Nantes, signing a two-year deal as the Super Lig club looks to bolster its defence before the new season.

Konyaspor confirmed the transfer on their official website, announcing that the Nigeria international centre-back will wear the number 15 shirt.

The 29-year-old’s arrival adds experience and versatility to Konyaspor’s back line, with the former Major League Soccer defender having previously played for FC Cincinnati and Colorado Rapids.

This transfer marks Awaziem’s second spell in Turkey. He first appeared in the Super Lig during the 2021-22 season, when he joined Alanyaspor on loan from Portuguese side Boavista.

Return to familiar territory

Awaziem’s earlier stint at Alanyaspor proved significant for his development in Turkish football. Operating at the heart of defence, he became a regular in the Super Lig side, noted for his physical strength, dominance in the air and solid positional sense.

That season helped him acclimatise to the tempo and style of the Turkish top flight, laying the groundwork for his latest return with Konyaspor.

His performances at the Mediterranean club added to an already wide-ranging career, which includes spells across several European leagues.

Career across Europe and MLS

Before his latest move, Awaziem’s professional journey had taken him to Portugal, France, Croatia and Spain, alongside his time in Turkey and the United States.

The centre-back, a member of the Super Eagles set-up, built part of his reputation in MLS with FC Cincinnati and Colorado Rapids before returning to Europe.

Following his loan at Alanyaspor, Awaziem continued his career on the continent and later went back to Nantes for a second spell with the Ligue 1 club, featuring again in French football before agreeing terms with Konyaspor.

Konyaspor have not disclosed financial details of the transfer, but the club’s statement underlines that Awaziem’s signing is aimed at reinforcing their defensive options ahead of the upcoming Super Lig campaign.