In an exclusive revelation, former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has unveiled a captivating chapter from the early stages of his illustrious football career. The Nigerian talent discloses that he came tantalizingly close to sealing a deal with the renowned English club, Chelsea, sending shockwaves through the footballing world.
Onazi’s enthralling journey towards potential stardom took a momentous turn after he astounded audiences at the 2009 FIFA U17 World Cup, where his remarkable performance contributed to Nigeria’s memorable second-place finish. His exceptional display on the global stage captured the interest of none other than Chelsea, who offered him a trial, recognizing his immense potential.
However, fate intervened, and the promising midfielder’s dream of donning the iconic blue jersey was thwarted due to his tender age, rendering him ineligible to formalize the deal with the prestigious Premier League outfit. Undeterred, Onazi pivoted towards a new horizon and embarked on a transformative path that would shape his destiny.
Subsequently, the tenacious footballer found his calling in Serie A, as he seized the opportunity to join the esteemed Italian club, Lazio, in 2011. Initially honing his craft within the club’s youth ranks, Onazi’s unwavering perseverance and dedication culminated in a merited promotion to the revered first team, solidifying his status as a burgeoning talent to reckon with.
Reflecting on the pivotal juncture in his career, Onazi illuminated the circumstances surrounding his momentous decision, articulating, “When I was young, I almost signed for Chelsea, but we were underage and couldn’t play. We had to wait until we were 18. There was a lot of process. That is why my manager decided that we would go to Italy at that time. So he could start in Lazio’s second team and then, when he developed, he could start in the first team,” divulged Onazi in an exclusive interaction with Ajansspor.
Amidst the myriad “what-ifs” that punctuate the annals of football history, Onazi’s resolute resolve and unwavering fortitude shine as a testament to the unforeseen pathways that ultimately sculpt a player’s destiny. His revelation serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate tapestry of fate and choice that interweaves within the realm of sports, accentuating the enduring allure of the beautiful game.
