KRC Genk Football Director Dmitri De Conde has shed light on the emotional circumstances surrounding Paul Onuachu’s 2023 January transfer to Southampton, revealing that the Nigerian striker “begged him in tears” to allow the move.
Despite facing intense pressure to keep Onuachu for their title push, De Conde ultimately prioritized the player’s career aspirations.
“Paul was 28 years old, and he absolutely wanted to leave because it was the chance of a lifetime, for a contract that would not come back a second time,” Conde explained to RTBF.
“He begged me in tears to let him go… and in these cases, we no longer talk about money or the interest of the club! We will never block a deal: we always prioritize the human and the choice of the player.”
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Many Genk fans attributed the club’s failure to secure the Belgian Jupiler Pro League title to the loss of their prolific goal scorer. However, De Conde maintains that he acted in the player’s best interest, emphasizing that the opportunity to join a Premier League club was a rare and potentially life-changing one.
“People always talk to me about Onuachu, but we have to put it in the context of the time,” Conde stated. “We were in a title race, yes, but Paul was at a crucial stage in his career. This was a major step up for him, a chance to play in one of the biggest leagues in the world.”
Onuachu’s difficulties in England have been attributed to various factors. Some pundits believe that the Saints’ playing style, which often prioritizes possession and intricate passing, may not fully suit the Nigerian’s strengths. Onuachu is renowned for his aerial prowess and clinical finishing in front of goal, qualities that may not be as effectively utilized in Southampton’s current system.
However, recent performances, such as his impressive display against Liverpool in a 3-2 defeat, have offered glimpses of his potential. These displays have fueled optimism among Southampton fans, who believe that Onuachu can still make a significant impact at the club with time and adaptation.
De Conde, while acknowledging the disappointment felt by some Genk supporters, remains firm in his belief that he made the right decision. “Ultimately, we have to respect the player’s wishes,” he concluded. “If a player is desperate to leave, and it’s a good opportunity for them, it’s our duty to support them, even if it means making difficult decisions.”
Since Onuachu’s €18 million move to Southampton, he had failed to hit the ground running and he is yet to score a single goal for the Saints in 19 games across all competitions but while on loan at Trabzonspor, he scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 25 games across all competitions.
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