Nigeria midfielder Okechukwu Azubuike is delighted to have completed his move to 2019/20 UEFA Champions League (UCL) campaigners Istanbul Başakşehir, reports www.aclsports.com
Azubuike, 22, finalized his one year loan deal from Egyptian side Pyramids on Wednesday and told Aclsports that he is indeed happy and proud to join the ambitious Turkish club.
“I feel happy and proud of myself and I’m thankful to God for the opportunity,” said Azubuike to www.aclsports.com
Azubuike had a good spell in the Turkish Super League last term having joined Çaykur Rizespor in January on loan from Pyramids. He made fourteen consecutive appearances for Rizespor till the end of the season, with captivating performances which brought offers for him.
After a mini transfer tussle, Azubuike who captains Nigeria’s Under 23 side chose Başakşehir ahead of other prominent Turkish sides Besiktas and Galatasaray.
He says the lure of playing in Europe’s elite competition was crucial in his decision to join the capital club.
“It’s a dream come true for me to join a Champions League side. I am excited for this because it is a big step forward in my career,” added the former Bayelsa United star.
At Başakşehir who finished second in the Super League last term, Azubuike will reunite with his coach last season at Rizespor, Okan Buruk. The former Turkish midfielder was contracted to coach the club at the end of last season.
