Barnsley F.C. have confirmed that Nigerian midfielder Kelechi Nwakali will remain at the club for the 2026/27 season after being included on their retained list.
Nwakali’s future had been uncertain following a difficult 2025/26 campaign in which he fell out of favour and spent long periods away from the first team. Reports earlier this year suggested he could leave Oakwell, especially after disciplinary issues and limited appearances.
However, the 27-year-old midfielder returned to the senior squad late in the season and made substitute appearances in several League One matches, which may have influenced Barnsley’s decision to keep him.
Nwakali, who captained Nigeria to the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup title and won the tournament’s Golden Ball award, joined Barnsley in 2024 on a three-year deal.
