Libyan powerhouse Al Ittihad has finalized the acquisition of Nigerian playmaker Onuche Ogbelu, marking a significant reinforcement for their midfield. The former Flying Eagles standout joins the Tripoli-based giants after a successful tenure with Tunisian side Espérance Sportive de Tunis. Since transitioning to the North African landscape from Nasarawa United in 2023, Ogbelu has rapidly ascended the ranks of continental football, showcasing the technical poise that once earned him a call-up to the senior Nigeria national team, the Super Eagles.
During his time with the “Blood and Gold” in Tunisia, the 22-year-old established himself as a reliable engine in the center of the park, recording 45 league appearances and contributing two goals. His profile rose even further following a series of commanding performances at the FIFA Club World Cup last year, where his ability to dictate play against global opposition caught the eyes of scouts across the region. Al Ittihad now expects the creative midfielder to bring that same international pedigree to their domestic and continental campaigns.
The transfer represents a strategic move for both the player and the Libyan club. For Ogbelu, the switch to Al Ittihad provides a fresh platform to maintain his trajectory toward becoming a permanent fixture in the Nigerian national setup. For the club, securing a player with a background in the competitive Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and high-level experience in Tunisia bolsters their ambitions for silverware. The midfielder officially integrates into the squad this week as they prepare for the next round of league fixtures.
Ogbelu’s journey from the Nigerian domestic league to the elite clubs of North Africa underscores his development as one of the country’s most promising young talents. His exit from Espérance closes a successful chapter where he consistently met the demands of a high-pressure environment. As he dons the colors of Al Ittihad, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor his impact on the Libyan Premier League, anticipating the same flair and work rate that defined his previous stints.
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