FC Cincinnati have acquired midfielder Obinna Nwobodo from Göztepe S.K. of the Turkish Süper Lig via transfer, the club announced today. The club have signed Nwobodo to a contract through the 2024 season, with a club option for 2025. Nwobodo, 25, will join the club as a Designated Player and occupy an international roster spot, pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate.
The Nigerian midfielder arrives from Göztepe, where he made 62 appearances across all competitions since arriving in Turkey in September 2020. Nwobodo currently ranks first in the Turkish Süper Lig in tackles (121), ball recoveries (432), and pressures (772) this season. His 93 interceptions also rank among the best in the league.
“We’re excited to welcome Obinna to FC Cincinnati,” said Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati General Manager. “His overall quality will complement our group, while his work-rate and defensive presence in midfield are both exceptional. Obi is also a dedicated teammate with a character that fits what we’re trying to build. I’d like to thank our ownership group as they continue to demonstrate their commitment to this club.”
Prior to his time in the Süper Lig, Nwobodo made 114 appearances with Újpest FC in Hungary’s NB I, the country’s top flight. With Újpest, he scored 15 goals and added 22 assists in four seasons.
“Obinna is an elite ball-winning midfielder that adds a different dynamic to our team,” said Pat Noonan, FC Cincinnati Head Coach. “His ability to break up plays, combined with his forward-first mentality, make him an excellent addition to our group.”
Nwobodo, 25, began his professional career in his hometown of Enugu, Nigeria. He signed with Rangers FC in 2015, and in his first season with the club, he scored seven goals, contributed 10 assists, and was named the club’s Player of the Year en route to the club’s first league title in 32 years.
He competed at the youth international level for Nigeria, representing the Super Eagles at the CAF U20 Championship in 2015. Nwobodo scored a crucial goal in the semifinal against Ghana as the U20 Nigerian squad won their seventh title.
TRANSACTION: FC Cincinnati acquire Obinna Nwobodo from Göztepe S.K. via transfer on April 13, 2022. Nwobodo signs a contract through 2024, with a club option for 2025.
OBINNA NWOBODO
Pronunciation: oh-BEAN-uh WOE-bo-doe
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’ 10”
Birthdate: November 29, 1996 (25)
Birthplace: Enugu, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
How Acquired: Acquired via transfer from Göztepe S.K. on April 13, 2022.
