You're Hired: Nigerian legend Kanu's Enyimba unveil 36-year-old ex-Super Eagles star as new player

Brown Ideye looks immaculate in his new colours.

You're Hired: Nigerian legend Kanu's Enyimba unveil 36-year-old ex-Super Eagles star as new player

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 16:36 - 30.12.2024

Nwankwo Kanu and Enyimba have bolstered their attack with the addition of a former Super Eagles striker.

Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu and Enyimba have strengthened their squad with the signing of former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye.

The club, known as the People’s Elephant announced the addition of the 36-year-old on their social media platforms, expressing excitement about the experience and professionalism he will bring to their campaign.

In a statement, Enyimba said, “We are delighted to officially announce the addition of former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye to our fold… We are expectant of the experience & professionalism he will add to our game/quest in our remaining games this season, especially under the New Gaffer.”

Brown Ideye returns to Nigerian football after 17 years, having last played for Kuwaiti side Al Yarmouk in 2022.

Brown Ideye joins Nigerian giants Enyimba.
Brown Ideye joins Nigerian giants Enyimba.

His contract with Nigeria’s most successful club Enyimba extends until the end of the 2024/25 season.

This move is essentially a homecoming for Ideye, who left Ocean Boys in 2006 and has since enjoyed a successful career abroad, including stints in the Premier League and Ligue 1.

Brown Ideye celebrates Nigeria's AFCON 2013 success (Credit: Imago)

The signing comes after a near-deal with former Enyimba boss Finidi George’s Rivers United in October that ultimately fell through.

With his unveiling, Ideye joins fellow former colleagues Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi to return to the NPFL.

Ideye will wear number 34 at the club.

Meanwhile, the striker will play under a new coach after the Elephants and their youthful coach confirmed their separation.

Enyimba and 32-year-old Yemi Olanrewaju parted ways following a run of nine matches without a win across competitions.

Yemi Olanrewaju has left his role as Enyimba's coach.

As reported by Pulse Sports Nigeria, Olanrewaju departed with Enyimba out of the NPFL title race and in midtable after seven draws and two defeats.

With Ideye’s arrival, Enyimba’s supporters will be hopeful that his experience can help the Elephants rediscover their firepower.