Super Eagles’ midfield maestro, Oghenekaro Etebo, has opened up about his decision to join Genclerbirligi, a second division club in Turkey, despite receiving offers from top-flight teams across Europe.
The former Stoke City and Galatasaray star recently shared his thoughts on this career move, revealing the personal and professional reasons behind the unexpected choice.
In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, Etebo 28, spoke candidly about the scepticism he faced when the news broke of his transfer to the lower division club.
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“A lot of people were calling me, asking, ‘Why would you go to a second division club in Turkey?” Etebo admitted. For many, it seemed like a surprising choice, especially for a player of his calibre who had just made a full recovery from injury.
However, Etebo explained that his connection with the club went far beyond what many onlookers could understand. During his recovery, Genclerbirligi had offered him access to their training facilities without any obligation on his part. This generosity, coupled with the relationship he built with the coaching staff, played a significant role in his decision.
“From January till the end of the season, I didn’t pay for anything, and I trained with the group—100%,” he said, reflecting on how the club had supported him during a difficult period.
For Etebo, this kindness created a sense of loyalty. He felt indebted to the club and believed that joining them was the right way to repay their trust.
The conversations he had with Genclerbirligi’s former coach, Sinan Kaloglu, also proved influential. Kaloglu had stressed the importance of respect and loyalty to the club.
“He emphasized the importance of respecting the club,” Etebo recalled. “He said that when a club opens its doors to you, a lot of people don’t know what happens behind the scenes. You have to respect them.”
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“The coach told me: ‘Etebo, I’d tell you something, even before you sign for any team, or before you go anywhere. Just remember that these guys are the ones that looked after you. So, it’s very important.”
The midfielder also revealed that the words of the club’s doctor further influenced his decision.
“I remember, every time the doctor would say to me, even if it’s 6 months or 1 year, you have to wear this jersey, ’cos we looked after you and all that,” Etebo said.
Despite receiving offers from other teams, including first-division clubs in Turkey and Israel, Etebo ultimately decided to sign with Genclerbirligi.
“I had options before I came here. I received offers from Israel and first-division sides in Turkey,” he confirmed.
However, the support he received from the club during his rehabilitation and the modest yet meaningful contract they offered made his decision an easy one.
“They knew I hadn’t played for a year. The money wasn’t that big, but it was just for me to be on the pitch and show that I’m back,” he said.
“It was so easy because they didn’t even put a buy-out clause. They really wanted to support me,” Etebo explained.
Etebo also highlighted Genclerbirligi’s rich history and their commitment to helping players rebuild their careers.
“They have a legacy of big players coming in, and they want to be known as the club that brought you back when you were down,” Etebo said.
He fondly remembered fellow Nigerian footballer Isaac Promise, who played for the club and remains a beloved figure there.
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“They love him [Isaac Promise] here so much, and they really respect him,” he added.
Beyond loyalty and career revival, Etebo acknowledged the support from his family, agent, and friends in making the decision to move to Turkey.
“The most important thing for me now is to play, and that I would do with the team,” he said, emphasising the impact the move would have on his career trajectory.
His agent, with whom he shares a strong working relationship, also played a key role in finalising the deal.
“They informed me they wanted me to stay with them. I spoke to my agent about it, and we agreed as I have a very good relationship with them.”
Etebo didn’t leave out the crucial backing from his family, whose support helped seal the deal.
“My family’s support was also crucial in getting the deal done,” concluded Etebo who has played five times so far for Genclerbirligi in the 2024/2025 season.
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COMMENTS
Loyalty will take you to places. I love what this guy did. Everything is not about money.
The Lord is your strength, come back stronger