Former Super Eagles striker Simy Nwankwo, who featured for Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, has completed a move to Saudi Arabian second-division club Al-Orobah. Yohaig NG reports that the transfer brings an end to Simy’s time in Europe as he prepares for a new challenge in the Saudi First Division.
Simy, known for his strong finishes and aerial ability, previously played for clubs including Crotone and Pisa in Italy. The Nigerian forward will now aim to rediscover his scoring touch in the Middle East and contribute to Al-Orobah’s promotion ambitions.
Editorial
We believe Simy’s move to Saudi Arabia is a calculated step in a career that has seen both high peaks and significant challenges. After leading the line for Nigeria at the World Cup, the striker’s time in Europe was marked by flashes of brilliance, but also struggles with consistency and form. In heading to Al-Orobah, Simy is entering a league that can offer both competitive football and a chance to reset his career away from the spotlight.
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What stands out is that this move represents more than just a change of scenery. For a player like Simy, Saudi Arabia offers a platform where he can rebuild confidence, regain match sharpness, and potentially play a leadership role in a less pressured environment. The Saudi league has become a home for players seeking both professional renewal and financial reward — and Simy’s decision falls into that growing category.
That said, this is not a walk in the park. The Saudi First Division is physically demanding, and success will require more than just experience — it will demand sharpness, drive, and a real hunger to lead from the front. Simy’s ability to stay fit, adapt to new styles of play and remain mentally resilient will determine whether this chapter revitalises his career or becomes another stop on a long journey.
We believe that if Simy approaches this new phase with determination and a willingness to work hard, he has the tools to reinvent himself. His experience at international level could make him a key figure for Al-Orobah, not just as a striker but as a mentor for younger teammates. Ultimately, this move has the potential to be a turning point — but one that will depend on Simy’s mindset more than anything else.
Did You Know?
- Simy was Nigeria’s top scorer during their World Cup qualifying campaign, helping to secure their place in the 2018 tournament.
- In the 2017–18 Serie B season, Simy scored 20 goals for Crotone, helping the club to promotion to Italy’s top flight for the first time in its history.
- By scoring 20+ goals in Serie A, Simy became the first Nigerian to hit that mark in a single Italian top-flight season.
- Al-Orobah, Simy’s new club, is based in Sakakah, in Saudi Arabia’s Al Jawf region, and was founded in 1975.
- Simy had previously made a move to the Middle East before, playing briefly in the Saudi Pro League earlier in his career prior to returning to Europe.
