Macleans Chinonyerem: Nigeria forward joins Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Shabab

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Former Leczna forward Macleans Chinonyerem has completed her switch to Saudi Arabia side Al-Shabab from Russian women’s football side Lokomotiv Moscow.

The Nigeria forward was unveiled by the Saudi side on her birthday moments after celebrating another year on October 1, 2024.

Her switch to Al-Shabab ended three season stint with the Russian side.

“I’m excited to join Al Shabab Women FC and contribute to the team’s success,” Macleans said.

“Saudi Arabia’s vision for women’s football is inspiring, and I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

Before joining Lokomotiv Moscow, Macleans played in Poland’s top division with Leczna and was the top goal scorer in the league before departing for Russia.

With Macleans on board, Al Shabab Women FC aims to challenge for the Saudi Women’s Premier League title and make a statement in regional competitions.

“Chinonyerem’s signing demonstrates our commitment to excellence,” said Al Shabab’s Chairman. “Her skills and experience will elevate our team and inspire young Saudi women to pursue football careers.”

Before moving abroad, Macleans played for Abia Angels and Bayelsa Queens in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership.

Her first stint in Europe was with Bobruichanka in Belarus before moving to Stomilanki in Poland.

She was part of the Super Falcons side at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco and also made Randy Waldrum’s squad to the last women’s football tournament of the Paris 2024 Olympics in France.