Trabzonspor’s title push in the Turkish top flight has suffered a serious setback after Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu was ruled out with a thigh injury at a crucial stage of the season, Footynaija reports.
The Super Eagles forward picked up the problem during a final training session ahead of their trip to face Alanyaspor. Initial medical checks revealed pain and stiffness in his left thigh, with club doctors suspecting a muscle injury. He has since been withdrawn from the squad, and treatment has already begun.
Trabzonspor’s Health Board Chairman, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Beşir, confirmed the development, saying:
“Following an initial assessment of our player Paul Onuachu, who experienced pain and stiffness in the upper anterior thigh muscle group during today’s training session, a muscle injury is suspected, and he has been removed from the Corendon Alanyaspor match squad. Treatment for our player has been started by our medical team.”
Trabzonspor, antrenmanda sol uyluk ön üst kas grubunda ağrı ve sertlik hisseden Paul Onuachu’nun Alanyaspor maç kadrosundan çıkarıldığını açıkladı. pic.twitter.com/DOhhxDttLc
— De Marke Sports (@demarkesports) April 10, 2026
Onuachu’s absence leaves a major gap for Trabzonspor, with the striker playing a central role in their campaign. He has scored 22 league goals in 25 matches and 24 in 28 across all competitions, contributing a significant share of the team’s attacking output. His height and aerial ability have made him a constant threat, while his recent run of nine consecutive scoring appearances underlined his importance.
His latest goal came in a vital 2-1 win over title rivals Galatasaray, a result that revived Trabzonspor’s hopes of lifting the title. Even Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk acknowledged his influence, noting that Trabzonspor are ‘a different team’ without him.
Trabzonspor organize an autograph session with Paul Onuachu for the fans.
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) April 9, 2026
He is currently the highest goalscorer in the Turkish League. 🔥🇳🇬
pic.twitter.com/O8rPg7p8Kn
With the title race finely balanced, the timing of the injury could prove decisive. Galatasaray currently lead the standings, while Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor remain close behind. Trabzonspor had been building momentum with a strong run of victories, but losing their main striker now raises fresh doubts about their ability to keep pace.
Coach Fatih Tekke is expected to rely on alternative options in attack, but replacing Onuachu’s goals and presence will be a difficult task as the season reaches its decisive phase.
