Tension at Barnsley: Nwakali ordered to train away from first team, misses season opener

Super Eagles star Kelechi Nwakali is facing disciplinary actions at EFL League One club Barsnley following his late arrival for pre-season.

Allnigeriasoccer.com can report with certainty that the Arsenal academy graduate has fallen out of favour with Barnsley head staff Conor Hourihane, and has been instructed to train separately from the first team squad, casting his future into doubt.

Nwakali is not in tiptop condition as was left out of all Barnsley’s pre-season fixtures ahead of the new campaign.

Although the midfielder has retained the squad number he wore in his debut season, he was not included in Barnley’s matchday squad for their season opener against Plymouth Argyle at Home Park this afternoon.

While Barnsley have yet to release an official statement, indications suggest that the decision stems from concerns over his conduct.

Nwakali joined The Reds in August 2024, signing a three-year contract that keeps him at the Oakwell Stadium until June 30, 2027, but his future is now uncertain as tensions continue to rise behind the scenes. 

The former Golden Eaglets, Flying Eagles and Olympic national team captain appeared in twenty-six games in his first season at Barnsley, including twenty-three in League One.

Nwakali's goal against Exeter City was voted Barnsley's Goal of the Month for December 2024.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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