Nigeria Players Abroad
Gyori ETO FC sign former Nigeria defender Leon Balogun on free transfer
Former Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has joined Hungarian champions Gyori ETO FC on a free transfer, signing a one-year contract with the club.
The 38-year-old centre-back moved to Efrain Juarez’s side after leaving Cypriot club Aris Limassol, where he made 22 appearances last season. Balogun scored twice and provided one assist during his campaign in Cyprus.
His arrival gives Gyori ETO FC an experienced defender with a career spanning Germany, England and Scotland, as well as international football with Nigeria.
Balogun began his professional career in Germany, representing Hannover, Werder Bremen and Mainz. He later moved to the Premier League, where he played for Brighton & Hove Albion.
The defender also had two successful spells with Scottish giants Rangers. During his time at Ibrox, he helped the club win the Scottish Premiership title, one Scottish Cup and one Scottish League Cup.
Balogun said he was pleased to join Gyori ETO FC and was looking forward to contributing to the club’s ambitions.
“I am very happy to be a player of ETO FC, as this is an extremely exciting project,” Balogun told theclub’s official website.
“I think the team has already shown what it is capable of in the first few matches, but now it is important to define and maintain the appropriate standard so that we can continue to build on the successes of last season.
“I look forward to joining the team and contributing my experience and strengths on and off the field.”
Gyori ETO FC won the Hungarian title for the fifth time last season. The club’s latest championship success provides the backdrop for Balogun’s move as they prepare to build on that achievement under Juarez.
The Hungarian side is best known internationally for reaching the semi-finals of the European Cup in the 1964-65 season.
Balogun’s transfer brings his latest move after a campaign in which he remained an important part of the Aris Limassol squad. His experience at club level includes competition in Germany, the Premier League and Scottish football, while his honours with Rangers remain among the major achievements of his career.
The one-year agreement will see Balogun continue his playing career in Hungary, where he will join the reigning champions and work under Juarez. Gyori ETO FC have secured his services without paying a transfer fee, following his departure from Aris Limassol.
