After Barnsley’s 1-0 win over Sheffield United in the second round of the Carabao Cup, manager Darrell Clarke explained why summer signing Kelechi Nwakali did not make his debut. The Nigerian international, who joined Barnsley on August 12, was not included in the first five games due to delays in obtaining his visa and international clearance.
Nwakali only resumed training with his new teammates last week after receiving his visa and missed pre season preparations, leaving him behind on match fitness. Clarke mentioned that although Nwakali was named on the bench for the match, he is still building up his training minutes.
Had Nwakali played, it would have been his first appearance in English football since leaving Arsenal in 2019, where work permit issues hindered his progress.
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Kelechi Nwakali’s absence from Barnsley’s recent matches highlights the challenges footballers face when transitioning between clubs, especially when international transfers are involved. Delays with visas and clearances can derail a player’s momentum, as seen in Nwakali’s case. Missing pre-season training has left him playing catch up, and although he’s now in training, the decision to hold back on his debut shows the club’s cautious approach to ensuring his full fitness.
For Barnsley fans, the anticipation surrounding Nwakali’s debut continues to build. A former Golden Ball winner at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup, his potential is undeniable, and once match fit, he is expected to make a significant impact in Barnsley’s midfield. Nwakali’s ability to unlock defences with his vision and creativity will be crucial for Barnsley as they push forward in their campaign.
It’s also worth noting that Nwakali’s journey has been anything but straightforward. After struggling with work permit issues at Arsenal and bouncing between loan spells, this move to Barnsley could be a fresh start for him. Barnsley’s measured approach to his integration reflects their understanding of the need for patience, and once fully fit, Nwakali has the opportunity to prove himself in English football.
Did You Know?
- Kelechi Nwakali won the Golden Ball as the best player at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup, where Nigeria emerged as champions.
- Nwakali’s time at Arsenal was marred by work permit issues, leading to multiple loan spells in Europe.
- Barnsley signed Nwakali in the summer of 2024, marking his return to English football after five years away.
- Nwakali has had loan stints in countries such as the Netherlands and Portugal during his time away from English football.
- Barnsley’s 1-0 victory over Sheffield United in the Carabao Cup marked their progress to the third round of the competition.
