Though Simy Nwankwo’s Italian Serie A team Crotone were relegated at the end of this season, the Nigerian international must be one of the most sought-after names going into the next transfer window.
Why? Well, despite the ignominy of relegation, Simy (as he’s fondly called) distinguished himself for the Pythagoreans, scoring an incredible 20 goals for a team which eventually finished in 19th place.
Of Crotone’s 45 goals, Simy accounted for 44 percent and also made two assists. His 20 goals are the highest ever by any Nigerian in any of Europe’s big five leagues.
And though Crotone has gone down, Simy has been nominated for Serie A Forward of the Season award by Get Italian Football news.
Last season, the 29-year old also scored 20 goals in the Serie B, winning the Serie B golden boot and helping his team to gain promotion to the top-flight in the process.
What these recognitions mean is that Simy will not be allowed to go down with his relegated side. Rather than continue the yo-yo movement between Serie A and B, it is time for him to end his five-year stay with Crotone and find a new home.
Already, by scoring against Juventus, Napoli, Atalanta and Lazio (all top 6 teams) he’s proven that he can mix it with the best Italy can offer so getting a mid-table team that guarantees stability and quality service should be a priority.
Failure to do that, then Simy should be willing to look abroad to other European league’s where he will not lack suitors. Already he’s had a productive spell in Portugal with Portimonense and Gil Vincente so he won’t be faxed by the fear of the unknown.
Belgium, Holland, France or even a return to Portugal are options he cannot discountenance as he seeks to sign probably the last most important contract of his career as he enters age 30.
Then, having secured a good club, Simy will have to stake a claim for a regular spot in the Super Eagles. That he’s only four caps for Nigeria, including two substitute appearances at the 2018 FIFA World Cup against Croatia and Argentina belie his talent and effort.
In the final analysis, whether he stays in Italy or moves abroad, Simy must reap the rewards of his breakthrough season and position himself for a better team that is not perpetually struggling for survival.
