Nigerian international defender Chidozie Awaziem is reportedly finalizing a return to Ligue 1 side FC Nantes, six years after his initial loan spell with the French club, according to a report by Media Talk Africa. The 28-year-old center-back, currently with Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids, is said to be nearing a reunion with the club where he made his European breakthrough.

Awaziem first joined Nantes during the 2017-18 season on loan from Portuguese giants FC Porto. During that campaign, he registered one goal in 22 league appearances under then-manager Antoine Kamboure, showcasing his defensive versatility and aerial prowess. His contributions helped stabilize a backline that conceded just 41 goals that season, Nantes’ third-best defensive record in a decade.

The proposed move marks a career reset for Awaziem, who has accumulated experience across three continents. After departing Nantes, he spent time in Turkey with Çaykur Rizespor, Croatia’s Hajduk Split, and most recently Colorado Rapids, where he became a regular starter after joining in July 2023. His return to European football aligns with Nantes’ efforts to bolster their defense ahead of the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season, as the club seeks to improve on last year’s 13th-place finish.

Internationally, Awaziem has remained a steady presence for Nigeria, earning 33 senior caps since his 2017 debut. His leadership and tactical awareness were on display during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played every minute of the Super Eagles’ knockout-stage matches en route to a runner-up finish.

The transfer, if finalized, would see Awaziem add to Nantes’ growing contingent of African talent, which includes Senegal’s Moussa Sissoko and Egypt’s Mostafa Mohamed. His familiarity with the club and league, coupled with his global experience, positions him as a potential anchor for a squad aiming to climb Ligue 1’s standings. With preseason preparations intensifying, Nantes supporters will hope the reunion accelerates the team’s push for a top-half finish.