Nigerian striker Effiong Nsungusi, 25, has opened up to Kick Off Nigeria about his decision to join Romanian SuperLiga club UTA Arad, despite receiving offers from Asian and Middle Eastern clubs.
Nsungusi, nicknamed “The Journeyman”, completed his January transfer from Uzbekistan’s FC Neftchi Fergana to UTA Arad, marking yet another step in his well-traveled career.
Why Nsungusi Chose Romania Over Asia and the Middle East
Having recently joined UTA Arad’s squad for training, the Nigerian forward explained his reasons for choosing Romania after a short spell in Uzbekistan.
“I felt like my time in Asia was done for now, and I was looking to return to Europe. That was the main reason I chose UTA Arad over clubs from Asia and the Middle East who had tabled offers,” Nsungusi told Kick Off Nigeria.
“For me, it’s a dream and an ambition to keep moving until I make it to the Champions League stage. Having traveled alone around Nigeria since I was 11, moving between clubs just feels normal to me. I had several offers from clubs in Asia and the Middle East, but after spending two years away from Europe, I felt it was time to come back.”
“The Romanian SuperLiga has nine games left until the end of the season. Football is a team sport, so my priority is to help the team win games. Of course, scoring goals and providing assists would be great, but my main focus is contributing to the team’s success. I’m yet to make my debut in the Romanian league, but I personally believe that playing in Europe is always better and more professional than playing in Asia.”
Nsungusi’s Journey Through Multiple Leagues
The striker began his career with Ghanaian club International Allies in January 2018 before moving to Danish side HB Køge in 2020 on loan. His performances led to a permanent transfer to the Danish club.
In 2023, he moved on loan to Kazakhstan’s FC Atyrau, where he spent a season before signing for Uzbekistan’s FC Neftchi Fergana. Now, he hopes to make his mark in Romania as he continues his football journey.
With UTA Arad pushing to finish the season strongly, Nsungusi will be aiming to make an immediate impact as he returns to European football.
