KRC Genk Sporting Director Dimitri De Conde has revealed that Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu’s emotional plea played a key role in his move to Southampton in January 2023.
During the 2023 January transfer window, Onuachu joined Southampton from Belgium on a transfer fee in the region of 18 millions pounds.
Onuachu’s departure to the Premier League sparked disappointment among Genk fans, who questioned why the club sold their prolific striker during a crucial phase of the season.
Recently, De Conde explained that Onuachu was determined to seize what he considered a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.
“Paul was 28 years old, and he absolutely wanted to leave because it was the chance of a lifetime, for a contract that would not come back a second time,” De Conde told RTBF.
The Sporting Director revealed the personal nature of Onuachu’s request, saying: “He begged me in tears to let him go… and in these cases, we no longer talk about money or the interest of the club! We always prioritise the human and the choice of the player.”
Onuachu had been a key figure for Genk, scoring 79 goals in 114 league appearances and earning the Belgian Golden Boot during his time at the club.
Despite challenges at Southampton, including injuries and a battle against relegation, Onuachu remains one of Genk’s most iconic strikers, with De Conde praising his contributions on and off the pitch.
“[Onuachu is in my team] for his statistics, his goals, his Golden Boot, and his kindness!” De Conde added.
Onuachu’s transfer fulfilled his long-held ambition to play in the Premier League, although, his first six months was a disaster, firing blank in all his games for the saints.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
