Nwankwo Kanu's led Enyimba have a new captain following the departure of their Super Eagles star.
Nigeria's most successful club side, Enyimba FC, have named Somiari Alalibo as their new captain following the departure of Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke.
The announcement marks a new era for the Aba-based team, currently under the leadership of Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu.
11:00 - 16.09.2024
Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu loses talented 18-year-old Nigerian youth international
Nwankwo Kanu's Enyimba have lost the talented Nigerian youth international to a club in Europe for the rest of the season.
PAY ATTENTION: Join the BETTING PROF Telegram channel now
The club, affectionately known as the People's Elephant, took to social media to introduce their new skipper.
"Salute to our fearless captain, Somiari Alalibo! You lead by example," read Enyimba's official Facebook page statement.
Alalibo, widely regarded as the best ball-playing defender in the country, joined Enyimba in 2020 after an impressive debut season in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, with Dakkada FC of Akwa Ibom State.
Known for his exceptional free-kick ability, the talented centre-back has quickly become a key figure in the team's defensive line.
The new captain's tenure has gotten off to a promising start, with Enyimba remaining unbeaten across all competitions since his appointment.
Under Alalibo's leadership, the team secured a victory against Heartland FC in their NPFL season opener and held Malian side Filante to a goalless draw in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) qualifier.
Enyimba will be looking to capitalise on this positive momentum as they prepare to host Filante in Uyo for the second leg of their CAFCC qualifier this weekend.
A win would see the two-time CAF Champions League winners secure a place in the group stages of the continental competition.
As Alalibo takes on the captain's armband, fans and management will be hoping his leadership skills on and off the pitch will help guide Enyimba to more silverware, adding to their impressive collection of domestic and continental titles.
This transition in leadership comes at a crucial time for Enyimba, as they aim to reassert their dominance in Nigerian football and make a strong showing in African competitions under the guidance of their new chairman, Kanu.