Official: Chidozie Awaziem leaves Europe, signs for FC Cincinnati

• Awaziem quits Europe for America
• The defender has committed to a one-year deal with options for an extension

United States' FC Cincinnati have announced the signing of Nigerian center-back, Chidozie Awaziem from Boavista FC.

The contract extends through the 2025 season, with options for 2026 and 2027. The deal is pending the approval of Awaziem's P-1 visa.

Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati's general manager, expressed his excitement about the new addition in a press release: "We’re delighted to have Chidozie join the club. He’s a talented defender with extensive experience at the European and international levels. His quality, character, and leadership will be a valuable addition to our group, and I’d like to welcome him to Cincinnati."

Awaziem, 27, has been playing for Boavista in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and represents Nigeria on the international stage.

He shared his enthusiasm for joining FC Cincinnati, saying, "It’s been a wonderful time I’ve had with Cincinnati. I see the love the fans and everybody has for soccer.

"I see all the games that Cincinnati have been playing, and this has motivated me a lot to be part of this team and to feel like what it is to be a player for FC Cincinnati and represent this wonderful and amazing club."

Awaziem began his European career with Porto in 2014 but struggled to secure a regular spot in the team. He was loaned out to four different clubs across Europe before signing permanently with Boavista in 2021.

During the 2021/22 season, he was loaned to Alanyaspor, and in the 2022/23 season, he played for Hajduk Split. He returned to Boavista, making 27 appearances in the most recent season.

Internationally, Awaziem has represented Nigeria's Super Eagles multiple times, including being part of the 2018 World Cup squad, although he did not play. He has also participated in three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, earning 25 caps.

Awaziem is anticipated to play as a right center back in FC Cincinnati's back three.