Onuachu: ‘My Heart Didn’t Want Anywhere Other Than Trabzonspor’

Nigeria international Paul Onuachu has revealed that returning to Trabzonspor was always his priority, saying he turned down serious offers from other Turkish clubs because he believed his future was destined to be with the Black Sea side.

Speaking to TRT Spor during Trabzonspor’s pre-season camp in Austria, the Super Eagles striker said he developed an instant connection with the club during his initial loan spell from Southampton.

“The first time I set foot in Trabzon on loan, I said, ‘This is my place.’ I felt like a part of this place from the first time,” Onuachu said.

“After the season I spent with Southampton, I fought an important struggle to come back to Trabzonspor. I told myself that it was destiny to join here and play for Trabzonspor. It was part of my destiny.”

The 32-year-old disclosed that several clubs in Turkey attempted to sign him, but insisted his heart was only set on one destination.

“Different teams from Turkey wanted me. There were also very serious offers. However, my heart did not want a place other than Trabzon. There is a different feeling and courage that the city, the fans and this place give me,” he said.

Onuachu also highlighted the strong relationship he has built with the club’s hierarchy, revealing he never considered joining another team once discussions over his future began.

“We have established a special bond with the president and vice presidents. During the process of leaving Southampton, I said, ‘Either it will be Trabzonspor or it will not be anywhere else.’ I’m glad I came here. I made the right decision.”

Reflecting on last season, the striker dismissed suggestions that his goals were solely down to individual brilliance, stressing that the team’s collective effort was the key to his success.

“Maybe I am the one who scored the goals, but if there is no assist, if the winger or defender doesn’t do his job, if there is no pressure, maybe the goals won’t come. We score as a team. I want success as a team rather than individual success.”

Onuachu also spoke about his friendship with fellow Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, saying the pair always celebrate each other’s achievements despite playing for different clubs.

“When one of us achieves success, we congratulate each other. I called him when they won the league. It is nice to play with someone from the same country and compete. When he wins, I congratulate him, and when I win, he congratulates me.”

The former Genk forward praised Trabzonspor head coach Fatih Tekke, noting that the former striker’s experience has strengthened their relationship.

“Working with someone who has come from the field, played as a football player and played in the same position as you improves our communication with the coach,” he said.

Looking ahead to the new campaign, Onuachu acknowledged that expectations will be much higher following Trabzonspor’s Turkish Cup triumph and qualification for European competition.

“The expectations this season will be bigger than last season. Of course, we won the Turkish Cup. We are in Europe. We must be successful there as well. There will be expectations about this, but I don’t think our style will change much.”