Nigeria international Chidera Ejuke has stated that a return to the Super Eagles was the key factor behind his decision to join Sevilla.
The 26-year-old, who spent the 2023/24 season on loan with Belgian side Antwerp, joined the Spanish giants on a free transfer from Russian club CSKA on Monday.
Despite Sevilla and La Liga representing a step-up in competition, Ejuke, who in the process of signing became the first ever Nigerian on the books at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, told the club's official website it was his desire to once again be considered for international selection that led him to take on the challenge.
“It is special to be the first Nigerian here,” he said. “I think I feel good being part of this team and I'm looking forward to seeing what I can contribute to the team.
“I also hope to be able to return to the Nigeria (national team), because obviously it is always nice to represent your country, so I hope it is time to do it again and I am also very excited.”
Ejuke has not featured for Nigeria since the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, which was held in 2022 in Cameroon.
Chidera Ejuke's adaptability crucial for both Sevilla and Super Eagles
Having played a variety of positions in his career, the question of where Ejuke is most comfortable naturally arose during his presentation.
“I am a player who likes to enjoy football and have fun on the pitch. I can bring a lot of things: passes, dribbling, speed, and hard work for my teammates,” he explained.
“Mainly, I love playing on the left wing, but I can adapt to playing on both wings. It's not really a challenge for me because I normally do it, but mainly I love playing on the left wing.
Ejuke's ability to play all across the front line will no doubt stand him in good stead as Sevilla seek to bounce back from a difficult 2023/24 La Liga campaign. It would also do his prospects of a Super Eagles return no harm.
While a transfer to La Liga would no doubt make the case for an international recall, his preference for the left flank would put him in direct competition with Atalanta's Ademola Lookman, who has been in strong form in 2024.
However, his versatility opens up the possibility of starting on the right, where there is less certainty and competition.
