Victor Osimhen grabbed much of the headlines in the summer, deservedly so for his stellar season in France and for his subsequent move to Napoli. But there is one other Nigerian star who also shone in the French league last season – Moses Simon.
While Simon wasn’t as talked about as his compatriot, his season with FC Nantes was nothing short of remarkable that earned him the club’s player of the year award. It didn’t end there. He also received a nomination for the best African player in Ligue 1 crown which Osimhen ended up winning.
The season before last, things weren’t as bright for Moses Simon. He missed the 2018 World Cup with an ankle injury, which also hampered his debut season in Spain. He endured a torrid time in La Liga with C.D Levante after his move from K.A.A. Gent in August 2018.
In his only La Liga campaign, he scored once in 19 times games with most of them coming from the bench. Not what you’d expect from the fleet-footed Nigerian international winger who was linked with top English clubs during his stint in Belgium.
A loan switch to Nantes materialized. The change of scenery worked wonders for Simon as he proved his worth in France with his electric play. It wasn’t only about his burst of pace, stop-overs, or feints that leave defenders for the dead, Simon contributed 9 goals and 8 assists in all competitions, the highest totals in both categories for the club. Nantes acted swiftly to secure his signature permanently on a four-year deal after the abrupt end of Ligue 1.
“We soon realized that he would be a good choice, Gourcuff, Nantes coach told RMC Sports.
“I didn’t know him at first, but his track and qualities are great”
“From the moment there was an option to buy [Moses Simon], we had no doubts.
The player himself also said that he wanted to stay. I don’t know the details, but I never doubted the purchase option.” Gourcuff said of the player.
With over 30 caps for Nigeria, Moses Simon can be seen as an established national team player. But he’s one who hasn’t quite cracked local fans with his football for the national team. He was unfortunate to miss the 2018 World Cup. He failed to sparkle in last year’s AFCON, loosing his place on the right wing to the exciting Samuel Chukwueze.
Competition for places in the national team is increasing by the day, especially in the attacking front. Many players are coming through, but if Simon plays to the level he has shown he can, he would easily fit in Gernot Rohr’s plans.
The player has aired his ambition of playing in the Premier League. Although he nearly joined Brighton and Hove Albion in the past, he still keeps the EPL dream alive.
“It was very close, but I’m happy with my football. I will take my career as it comes,” Simon told Tribalfootball.com.
“I have a strong desire to play in the EPL. This is my dream, but things happen in football and I believe everything is for my good.” Simon added.
Born in Jos, Moses Simon started out at GBS academy. He first headed to Europe to trial with Ajax. He failed to reach an agreement with the Amsterdammers after a successful trial but then signed a three-year contract with Slovak side AS Trencin in January 2014. His spell there was successful, which propelled his move to France via Belgium and Spain.
At the age of 25, Simon’s peak years are well ahead of him. He’s had some setbacks, and he’s back on form. It is inevitable for him to reach football’s most followed league in a few years time.
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