Uzoho says goodbye to AC Omonia after four years with Cypriot club

Francis Uzoho has announced his departure from AC Omonia, saying he would “hate to say goodbye” to the Cypriot First Division club after four years associated with the team.

The Nigeria international shared an emotional message on social media in which he thanked Omonia supporters for the affection and consistent backing they had given him throughout his time in Cyprus.

Uzoho first joined AC Omonia on loan from Deportivo La Coruna in July 2019. He returned to the club two years later, completing a permanent move in the summer of 2021.

During his spell with what is also known as The Queen, the goalkeeper made 77 appearances in all competitions. He conceded 84 goals and recorded 29 clean sheets before bringing his time at the club to an end.

One of Uzoho’s most notable displays for AC Omonia came in the Europa League against Manchester United at Old Trafford in October 2022.

The goalkeeper made a series of important saves and appeared on course to keep a clean sheet against the Premier League side. However, Manchester United eventually found a way through when Scott McTominay scored in the third minute of stoppage time.

Despite that late setback, Uzoho’s performance attracted considerable attention and became one of the defining moments of his Omonia career.

Reflecting on his time with the club, Uzoho said: “What a journey it’s been for me with this badge on my chest, so much memories. It was an honor to represent this massive club,” Uzoho wrote on Instagram.

He then praised the supporters for their treatment of him from the beginning of his Omonia career until his final day with the club.

“A very big thank you to the fans, the love you guys showed towards me from day one till the last day will never be forgotten.

“I’d hate to say goodbye but it’s not in my hands. I will always love this club. Good bye.”

The 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning goalkeeper’s future had been the subject of speculation before his farewell message was published.

Uzoho was not selected in the starting line-up for any of Omonia’s first six competitive matches of the new season, remaining on the bench as uncertainty surrounding his position continued.

His departure now closes a lengthy association with the Cypriot club, which began with his initial loan move in 2019 and included both domestic appearances and European competition.