Trabzonspor president Ertuğrul Doğan has confirmed that the club have offered former Nigerian winger Anthony Nwakaeme a scouting role following his retirement, with a particular focus on identifying emerging talent across Africa.
The proposal comes shortly after Nwakaeme ended his playing career on a high note, helping Trabzonspor secure a 2-1 victory over Konyaspor in the 2026 Turkish Cup final — a match he had previously described as his “final mission” for the club.
Speaking on the offer, Doğan praised the 37-year-old’s deep football knowledge, leadership qualities, and strong character, stating that the club values his continued presence. “We met and spoke with Nwakaeme. We want him to stay with us in our scouting efforts in Africa,” he said. “He has incredible football knowledge and a strong character. We’ve made our offer, and the final decision is his.”
Nwakaeme leaves Trabzonspor as one of the most influential foreign players in the club’s history. Across two spells between 2018–2022 and 2024–2026, he scored 50 goals in 193 appearances and won every major domestic trophy in Turkish football, including the league title, two Turkish Cups, and the Turkish Super Cup.
His standout campaign came in 2021–22, when he registered 13 goals and 10 assists to help Trabzonspor end a 38-year wait for the Turkish league crown. His impact on and off the pitch made him a fan favourite, even earning him a bronze statue near the stadium — a rare honour for a foreign player in Turkey.
Beyond his playing contributions, club officials believe Nwakaeme’s influence in the dressing room and his understanding of African football could make him a valuable asset in recruitment. The proposed role would see him act as a bridge between the club and African talent pathways, helping identify and guide the next generation of players.
Reports also suggest he has turned down offers from clubs in the UAE, as he appears keen to remain in Trabzon in some capacity.
