Trabzonspor Coach Explains Onuachu’s Bench Role vs Kasimpasa

Trabzonspor manager Fatih Tekke has revealed that Paul Onuachu’s place on the bench in Friday’s 2-1 win over Kasimpasa was a precautionary move to protect the striker from injury following his return from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Onuachu, fresh from representing Nigeria at AFCON 2025, made an immediate impact after being introduced in the second half, scoring within five minutes to hand his side the lead.

The goal was his 12th of the season in 16 league appearances, underlining his prolific form.

Speaking after the match, Tekke explained the decision to rest the 31-year-old from the starting lineup.

‘Onuachu returned from the national team. He had a very long journey. He was very, very good in training on Thursday. But we did not start him in the eleven to avoid the risk of injury,’he told beIN Sports.

The coach added that the choice was made in consultation with the player: ‘We have a very strong player on the bench at any point in the game, and we are already considering using him. It’s not about disrupting the starting eleven, it’s a decision made entirely with the player in mind and with the following weeks in mind.’

Onuachu had earlier marked his first-ever AFCON goal in Morocco, scoring in Nigeria’s 3-1 group-stage victory over Uganda before returning to club duty.