What Bayern Munich icon said about Super Eagles' new Jay Jay Okocha

Chidera Ejuke has reignited his career at Belgian champions Royal Antwerp. (Photo Credit: Antwerp/X)

FOOTBALL What Bayern Munich icon said about Super Eagles' new Jay Jay Okocha

What Bayern Munich icon said about Super Eagles' new Jay Jay Okocha

Izuchukwu Akawor • 06:35 - 07.03.2024

Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke continues to impress at his club Royal Antwerp under the watchful eyes of a former Bayern Munich star.

Royal Antwerp's resurgence under the guidance of Mark van Bommel has been nothing short of remarkable, but perhaps no player typifies their newfound flair and resilience more than Chidera Ejuke, the forgotten Super Eagles star.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that former Bayern Munich midfielder and coach at Antwerp, van Bommel, has nothing but praise for his talented dribbling sensation, Ejuke, who has drawn comparisons to the legendary Austin Jay Jay Okocha along the way. 

Super Eagles winger impresses at Antwerp

In a recent interview, Van Bommel couldn't hide his admiration for Ejuke's electrifying talent and ability to take players on, especially how the Super Eagles forward has grown defensively.

"Sometimes I think 'wow' when I see the boys dribbling,” he stated according to Voetbalkrant. 

Chidera Ejuke on the move against St. Truiden.
Chidera Ejuke on the move against St. Truiden. (Photo Credit: Royal Antwerp/X)

“He came to us as a fantastic dribbler, but the most important thing he learned with us is to come back to defend."

It's this newfound defensive responsibility that has elevated Ejuke's game to new heights. No longer just a flashy winger, the Nigerian international has transformed into a complete player.

Chidera Ejuke completed 100% dribbles on Sunday for Antwerp.
Chidera Ejuke completed 100% dribbles on Sunday for Antwerp.

Ejuke's impact was on full display in Royal Antwerp's emphatic 3-0 victory over St Truiden, where he orchestrated the attack with precision and finesse. 

A goal and an assist capped off a man-of-the-match performance as the Super Eagles stars left Antwerp fans purring for more.

Mark van Bommel has been impressed with Ejuke's growth defensively.
Mark van Bommel has been impressed with Ejuke's growth defensively.

A Pulse Sports report further underscores Ejuke's importance to the team, with the 26-year-old completing a staggering 50 dribbles this season – a feat unmatched by any Antwerp player since their return to the topflight in 2017.

But it's not just about individual accolades for Ejuke. His selfless playmaking and relentless work rate have endeared him to both his manager and fans as evidenced by his three goals and three assists in his 12 league starts.

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With Ejuke leading the charge, Royal Antwerp's resurgence shows no signs of slowing down. 

As they look to defend their Jupiler crown from last season, Ejuke's star shines ever brighter, proving that sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery to reignite a forgotten talent.

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Chidera Ejuke Nigeria Royal Antwerp First Division A