Ifeanyi Matthew: Former Kano Pillars’ star joins Swiss league giants Zurich

By Wale Mustapha

One of the brightest talents to have played in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Ifeanyi Matthew has sealed a move to Switzerland top division club, FC Zurich on an 18-month deal.

Matthew had played for Kano Pillars and Akwa United in the past and also a former Nigeria youth international before he made the move to 13-time Swiss League champions from Norwegian side, Lillestrom.

The former Kano Pillars’ midfielder ended a seven-year stay with Lillestrom where he played 186 matches scoring 20 goals and provided 18 assists.

The 2015 U20 AFCON-winning midfielder with the Flying Eagles also helped Lillestrom to win the Norwegian Cup in 2017.

FC Zurich’s Head of Sports, Marinko Jurendic described Matthew’s arrival as timely adding that the 26 year old “has particularly impressed us with his consistently strong performances at Lillestrøm SK.

“His strengths are not only positional play, but also playing against the ball,” Jurendic told the club’s website.

“In all previous positions he has shown that he is a valuable team player who is willing to take on responsibility.

“With these skills he should also further stabilize our team,” he concluded.