Chidozie Awaziem seals permanent move back to Nantes

Nigerian international defender Chidozie Awaziem is heading back to familiar territory, having finalized a transfer from Colorado Rapids to FC Nantes. Both clubs confirmed the move on July 23, 2025.

Awaziem, 28, returns to La Beaujoire on a three-year deal, following a previous loan spell with Nantes in the 2017–2018 season while still under contract with FC Porto. He’ll wear the No. 6 jersey for Les Canaris as he steps into a key role after the club’s departures of Jean-Charles Castelletto and Nicolas Pallois.

‘I didn’t think twice. For me, Nantes feels like home,’ Awaziem shared. ‘The warmth of the people, the spirit of the club—I was eager to be part of it again.’

Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith thanked Awaziem for his contributions during his time in Major League Soccer: ‘We’re grateful to Chido for everything this season and wish him all the best as he begins this exciting new chapter.’