Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has earned praise from former referee and football analyst Bünyamin Gezer following Trabzonspor’s 2-0 victory over Beşiktaş, which secured the club’s second consecutive clean sheet.
The win came after a commanding 4-0 triumph over Galatasaray, with both results achieved under head coach Thomas Reis, whose tactical approach emphasises defensive discipline and rapid transitions. Nwaiwu has played a key role in the team’s improved performances.
Gezer highlighted the Nigerian centre-back’s defensive qualities while reviewing Trabzonspor’s recent displays.
“Nwaiwu is very good in defence,” he said, according to Taka Gazete.
The analyst also praised the defender’s contribution to maintaining defensive solidity against some of Turkey’s strongest teams.
Nwaiwu has contributed offensively this season, scoring once for the Turkish club.
The recognition adds to the rapid progress of the former Wolfsberger defender, who received his first Super Eagles call-up in March after replacing the injured Calvin Bassey for friendlies against Iran and Jordan. He attributed his breakthrough to consistent performances.
He subsequently made his Nigeria debut, earning congratulations from Nigeria Premier Football League chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye.
Nwaiwu’s displays have also attracted interest from England, with Fulham, Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur reportedly monitoring him during the summer. Fulham were also said to have reached an agreement on personal terms with the defender.
However, Trabzonspor rejected a second offer from the Premier League club, insisting that any deal must meet their valuation. Nwaiwu remained in Turkey and has expressed satisfaction with life at the club.
His performances have continued to boost his market value. He was identified as the biggest gainer in a recent Süper Lig valuation update and ranks behind only Bassey among Nigerian defenders.
With Trabzonspor enjoying a strong run of results, Nwaiwu will aim to sustain his form and remain influential in defence and attack.
