HNK Gorica's Iyayi Atiemwen Continues To Catch The Eye In Croatia

Published: October 22, 2018

With Nigeria in search of the true heir to Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel, Gorica star Iyayi Atiemwen is a bona fide candidate to step into the shoes of the Super Eagles captain if he decides to call it quits with the national team.

Former Nigeria U23 coach Samson Siasia was the first national team coach to spot the potential of Iyayi and handed him a call-up for the international friendly against Brazil before the 2016 Olympic Games.

After spells in Turkey with Manisaspor, Sanliurfaspor, Caykur Rizespor and Kayseri Erciyesspor, the Bendel Insurance product has matured to become a top player since moving to HNK Gorica in February 2018.

Iyayi's versatility means he can be deployed as an attacking midfielder, left midfielder and left winger.

So far this season, the 22-year-old has been involved in 7 goals (4 goals, 3 assists) from 11 appearances in the Croatian 1. HNL, most recently against Slaven Belupo when he netted the winner in a 1-0 win.

He has been scouted by AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Empoli, Parma, Gijon, Mainz and Alaves ahead of the reopening of the transfer window.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : hnk-gorica.hr