Finidi George role key in Nwaiwu’s rise – Olarenwaju
A key positional decision by Finidi George has been identified as the turning point behind the emergence of Chibuike Nwaiwu, following the defender’s recent breakthrough with the Super Eagles.
Nwaiwu made his senior international debut in Nigeria’s 2-1 friendly win over Iran, capping a steady rise from domestic football to the European stage with Trabzonspor.
Position switch proves decisive
According to former Golden Eaglets assistant coach Yemi Olarenwaju, Nwaiwu initially played as a defensive midfielder during his early days at Enyimba FC before a tactical rethink reshaped his career.
“He started his career as a defensive midfielder, and we converted him to a centre-back,” Olarenwaju said.
“In fact, it was Finidi who first suggested that we should consider playing Chibuike at centre-back because of his pace and ball-winning ability.”
The switch was met with initial skepticism, but early performances quickly validated the decision.
“When we made that decision at Enyimba, everyone was surprised,” he added. “He started an FA Cup game… and delivered a solid performance. From then on, we kept him there.”
Development pathway and growth
Olarenwaju also highlighted physical demands as a factor behind the positional change, noting that Nwaiwu struggled to maintain intensity in midfield roles.
“I told him he could achieve greater success as a centre-back because he tends to get exhausted in midfield,” he said.
The adjustment allowed Nwaiwu to better manage his energy while maximising his strengths in duels and aerial battles, qualities that have defined his development since moving to Europe, including spells with Wolfsberger AC and now Trabzonspor.
Premier League ambition
Following his Super Eagles debut, expectations around the 22-year-old continue to grow, with his former coach backing him for a move to a top European league.
“We want to see him move to an even bigger league, like the Premier League or Spain’s La Liga,” Olarenwaju said.
With another international fixture against Jordan national team approaching, Nwaiwu is expected to build on his debut as Nigeria continues to integrate new talent into the squad.