Nigerian defensive midfielder Onuche Ogbelu has completed a move to Libyan giants Al-Ittihad SC, signing a three-year contract with the Tripoli-based club.

Ogbelu arrives from Tunisian side Esperance, where he spent two seasons establishing himself as one of the most composed midfielders in North African football. He originally joined Esperance in 2023 from Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

A standout at Esperance

The 23-year-old made 54 league appearances for Esperance, scoring two goals and earning wide recognition for his ability to read the game, evade the press, and distribute the ball with precision. His most prominent moment in a Blood and Gold shirt came at last year's FIFA Club World Cup in the United States of America, where his performances drew considerable praise.

A graduate of the Fosla Academy in Abuja, Ogbelu is renowned for his composure under pressure — qualities that made him a consistent starter for Esperance throughout his time at the club.

Al-Ittihad's busy summer

The signing makes Ogbelu the fifth addition to Al-Ittihad's squad this transfer window. The club have also brought in Thembinkosi Lorch, Adem Alilet, Stephane Aziz Ki, Ahmad Benali, and Anatole Abang as they build for what promises to be an ambitious campaign.

Flying Eagles pedigree

Before making his mark at club level, Ogbelu was a central figure in Nigeria's Flying Eagles side that claimed third place at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt. He featured in all six of Nigeria's matches throughout the tournament, underlining the trust the coaching staff placed in him.

His displays in Egypt were impressive enough to earn him a training invitation with the Super Eagles later in 2023, as Nigeria prepared for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.