Exceptionally talented Super Eagles star returns from injury

By Rhoda Etuk

Posted on January 3, 2024

Nigeria international and former U-17 forward Akin Amoo has marked his return from a lengthy injury layoff, featuring for his club side Omonia in a triumphant 3-1 home victory against AEL in the Cyprus League.

Amoo, who made a move to the Cyprus side on a three-year deal in September, has suffered persistent setbacks due to injuries throughout his career. His struggles began when he missed an entire season for his former club FC Copenhagen after sustaining a serious Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury. Despite his potential, the 21-year-old made just four appearances for the Danish club since arriving in January 2022, managing to score only one goal.

The dynamic midfielder for the Super Eagles faced yet another setback, enduring three months on the sidelines before finally making his debut for his new club Omonia following a severe injury.

However, beyond the challenges of injury, Amoo’s football career has been overshadowed by serious allegations. He was accused of indecent assault, attempted rape, and sexual misconduct in Denmark, purportedly receiving a one-year prison sentence for sexual assault as confirmed by a tweet from former BBC World Football reporter Osasu Obayiuwana on June 23, 2023.

Reports indicated multiple criminal charges against Akin Amoo by Danish authorities in April, July, and August 2022. He was initially arrested on September 10th, 2022, and subsequently released on bail on October 7th of the same year.

Contrary to these reports, Amoo’s representation agency refuted the accuracy of the claims, asserting that he had not been sentenced.

Despite these off-field controversies, the 21-year-old had shown promise on the international stage, contributing to Nigeria’s fourth-place finish at the 2019 U-17 AFCON and delivering noteworthy performances at the World Cup in Poland.

Amoo’s move to Omonia from FC Copenhagen in 2023 was a significant transition in his career. Having clinched his maiden league title with the Danish giants the previous year, his return to the pitch for Omonia signifies a potential resurgence following a tumultuous period both on and off the field.