Nigeria Leagues
“NPFL? Why not?” — Cyriel Dessers open to ending career in Nigeria
By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigeria striker Cyriel Dessers has revealed that a move to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on his radar as a possible destination before the end of his professional career.
Dessers scored 22 goals across all competitions for Rangers last season and remains a key figure in the club’s attacking line.
His suggestion of a possible NPFL stint in the future adds to a growing trend of European-based Nigerian stars considering moves back to the domestic league, a development that could significantly boost local interest and international visibility for the NPFL.
The 29-year-old forward, who currently plays for Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, made the statement in a recent interview with Sportsboom, where he reflected on the potential locations for the final chapter of his football journey.
“It’s a hard choice, but let me say a place like Japan, the United States, South Africa, or Nigeria. It would be nice to play there,” Dessers said.
The Netherlands-born striker has played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Scotland, and has long expressed a strong connection to his Nigerian heritage.
His openness to joining the NPFL has sparked excitement among local fans, who would welcome a player of his caliber to the domestic league.
While speculation continues around a potential move to Olympiacos or other European clubs, Dessers reaffirmed his commitment to Rangers, where he still has two years remaining on his contract.
“I still have two years left on my contract with Rangers. It’s a fantastic club, and I’m happy there,” he said.
On rumours of a possible transfer, the striker responded with measured confidence.
“When you score that number of goals, it’s normal for other teams to show interest. I’ve seen the rumours, but I don’t know anything specific about that. These kinds of talks are normal.”
