Exclusive: Raphael Onyedika Linked with Porto and Milan but Committed to Club Brugge’s Ambitions

Nigeria international Raphael Onyedika has expressed his happiness at Club Brugge despite attracting interest from top European clubs.

The midfielder has been a pivotal player for the Belgian top-flight club since joining from Danish side Midtjylland in 2022 on a five-year contract.

Thanks to his outstanding performances for the Blue-Black and the Super Eagles at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, several top European clubs, including AC Milan and a Portuguese side, have expressed interest in him.

Nonetheless, the 23-year-old is happy to remain at the Jan Breydel Stadium while keeping his options open for the future.

During the 2024-25 campaign, Onyedika has made 34 appearances in all competitions for Nicky Hayen’s Club Brugge, scoring twice.

ONYEDIKA CONTENT AT CLUB BRUGGE 

In addition to the Italian and Portuguese clubs, the African star has also been linked with potential moves to Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund.

When asked about his future, he stated that Club Brugge is his home for now and remains focused on helping the team achieve its goals.

"I don’t know what the future holds. Right now, I am very happy at Club Brugge," Onyedika told Sportsboom.com.

"I’m focused on doing my best and helping the team progress to the next level. I love the club, the fans, and everything about the environment here." 

"At this moment, I’m fully committed to the present and have no plans beyond that. My focus is solely on continuing to give my all for the team."

Renowned for his defensive skills, he has been instrumental in breaking up opposition attacks and maintaining stability in midfield. 

His ability to intercept passes, win tackles, and distribute the ball efficiently has made him a vital asset to the team.

BRUGGE STILL IN BELGIAN LEAGUE RACE

Onyedika also highlighted Club Brugge's ambitions in the Belgian topflight, despite their current position.

The reigning league champions are currently in second place in the Jupiler Pro League, with 51 points from 25 matches played so far, six points behind leaders Genk.

Nonetheless, the Nigerian remains optimistic about his team's chances of surpassing their cross-city rivals to secure a 20th title.

"Of course, we are still very much in the race to win the Belgian league title, and our goal is to win it just like we did last season," he continued.

"It’s still too early to count us out, as we have plenty of games left to play."

"We are focused and determined, and we will continue pushing until we reach the top spot."

ON CHAMPIONS LEAGUE AMBITION

Despite their 3-1 defeat to Premier League giants, Manchester City, the Belgian outfit still qualified for the next round of the Champions League. 

They will face Italian side Atalanta in the knockout phase play-offs, and Onyedika remains modest in his expectations, not asking for anything beyond giving their best effort in the upcoming challenge.

He added: "We were unfortunate not to win against Manchester City, especially after taking the lead, but we made too many mistakes."

"However, this is a crucial stage, and we are determined to keep giving our best effort."

"No one believed in us when we started in the Champions League, but look where we are today."

"Our goal is to continue qualifying for the next round, and we’ll see what happens as we push forward."

Club Brugge have lost only two of their last 22 matches across all competitions. 

When asked about what Hayen’s men are doing right, he stated: "We are much more organized as a team, and there's a strong sense of confidence within the squad."

"We are always there for each other, whether it's fighting together on the pitch, defending as one, or attacking as a unit. At the moment, everything is falling into place and going our way."