Nwakali’s Camp Denies Sack, Eyes Loan Move Amid Defamation Threat

Kelechi Nwakali’s representatives have firmly dismissed rumours that the midfielder was sacked by Barnsley. They insist he remains under with the League One club and is set to secure a loan move before the transfer window shuts.

The 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner has not featured in Barnsley’s matches this season missing games against Plymouth Argyle, Burton Albion, Fleetwood Town, Bolton Wanderers and Peterborough United.

Allwell Nwakali, the player’s elder brother, expressed frustration over false reports and revealed legal action is being explored against those responsible. "I don’t know what Kelechi did to the website… My lawyer will write to Mohammed Sulaiman for defamation. It’s time I sue that website and ensure he pays damages," .

Having signed a three year deal with Barnsley last summer that runs until the end of the 2026–27 season, Nwakali reportedly seeks game time via loan, despite the club expressing interest in retaining him. "Barnsley want him to stay, but he has requested a loan move… We have three to four clubs interested in him, both in England and abroad," Allwell added.
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In his debut season at Oakwell, Nwakali made 26 appearances and scored once—a strike that earned him Barnsley’s Goal of the Month for December 2024.

Editorial
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We admire the clarity that Nwakali’s camp brings to a murky situation. By rejecting rumours and hinting at legal recourse, they underscored how damaging misinformation can be—not only to a reputation, but to a career.
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A player’s desire for regular matches is perfectly reasonable. Nwakali’s plea for a loan move reveals ambition, not disloyalty. It speaks to his hunger for growth, and his willingness to regain momentum through constant competition. Barnsley’s openness to the idea, despite having signed him on a long-term deal, shows the club values him.
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The potential interest from multiple clubs—both domestically and abroad—shows that his talent remains recognised. It is a moment in which we are reminded of the power of clarity and action: when faced with rumours, pursuing truth is far more effective than silence. We trust that this episode will only sharpen his focus, and believe that the path ahead could define the next chapter of his career.

Did You Know?

Kelechi Nwakali won the Golden Ball at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, a tournament Nigeria also won. He emerged from the Arsenal academy, where he developed before embarking on multiple loan spells across Europe. During his time under contract with Arsenal, Nwakali had stints at clubs including MVV Maastricht, VVV-Venlo, Porto, Huesca, Alcorcón, Ponferradina and Chaves. His goal during Barnsley’s 2024 season was voted Goal of the Month for December, despite it being his only strike that campaign. Barnsley compete in England’s League One, the third tier of English football, known for its physical intensity and competitive nature making regular playing time a valuable asset for any rising talent.