Former Nigeria U-20 international Onuche Ogbelu has completed a transfer to Libyan powerhouse Al Ittihad from Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis, marking a significant step in his professional career. The 22 year old midfielder featured prominently in continental competitions before sealing the move to North Africa’s competitive league.
Ogbelu had been linked with several top clubs across Africa before Al Ittihad secured his signature, beating competition from other prominent teams on the continent.
Ogbelu’s journey to Libyan football began after a successful spell with Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League, where his performances earned him a move to Espérance in 2023. During his time in Tunisia, he featured in major tournaments including the FIFA Club World Cup and became known for his presence in midfield.
At Espérance, Ogbelu made over 80 appearances, contributing both defensively and in build-up play, and was part of the Flying Eagles squad at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
Editorial
Onuche Ogbelu’s move to Al Ittihad underscores the growing appeal of Libyan clubs for Nigerian talents seeking to raise their profiles across Africa. While Tunisian and Moroccan leagues often dominate headlines for African exports, Libya’s competitive environment and continental ambitions can offer a distinct platform for midfielders like Ogbelu to showcase their skills.
For Nigerian football followers, this transfer highlights the varied pathways available to emerging players. Ogbelu’s development from the NPFL to regular action on the continental stage reflects both his personal growth and the importance of robust youth structures in Nigeria. His time at Al Ittihad will be closely watched, as success there could catapult him into even more high-profile leagues or national team contention.
Ogbelu’s move also reinforces the trend of Nigerian midfielders plying their trade across North Africa, where tactical discipline and physical rigour are highly valued attributes. A strong debut season in Libya could open doors for further moves and strengthen the profile of Nigerian players abroad.
Did You Know?
- Onuche Ogbelu has joined Libyan giants Al Ittihad from Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
- The 22 year old midfielder previously played for Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League before moving to Tunisia in 2023.
- Ogbelu featured in the FIFA Club World Cup with Espérance, gaining experience in international club competition.
- He was part of the Nigeria U-20 Flying Eagles squad at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
- Libyan club Al Ittihad are one of the most successful teams in the Libyan Premier League and regularly compete in African continental tournaments.
