Moses Simon looks forward to playing in first World Cup

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Moses Simon has opened up about why he is not focused on moving to a bigger European club, despite his impressive form at Nantes.

The 29-year-old winger is a key figure for Nantes, starting in nearly every match when fit.

This season, Simon has recorded 13 goal contributions (6 goals and 7 assists) in 23 appearances, helping Nantes secure 14th place in the Ligue 1 standings.

In a recent interview with L’Équipe (via Homme Du Match), Simon explained that his decision to stay at Nantes is driven by the love and acceptance he feels at the club.

He emphasized that success is not just about being at a bigger club, but about finding happiness and playing regularly.

“But when you love your club, when you get on well with everyone, you can stay, so it’s not a problem,” Simon said.

“You can be at a bigger club, not play, and not be happy. Playing in the European Cup, of course, is something I have already experienced, but if it does not come… My job is Nantes.”

Simon also expressed his desire to play in his first World Cup after missing out on the 2018 tournament due to injury, and being absent from the 2022 edition after Nigeria failed to qualify, losing to Ghana in the qualifiers.

“I also hope to play my first World Cup in 2026. In 2018, I was injured, and in 2022, we didn’t qualify,” he said.