Chidozie Awaziem

Key strength: Adaptability

Versatile player

In the trenches of a relegation battle, FC Nantes find themselves precariously perched in 17th position, desperately fighting to preserve their top-flight status. At the heart of this defensive struggle stands Chidozie Awaziem, the 29-year-old Nigerian centre-back who has been an ever-present rock with 17 appearances and 1,516 minutes played this season. While the Canaries have struggled for consistency, Awaziem has brought aerial dominance and defensive stability as a defensive anchor in the backline. With a modest return of 1 goal and 1 assist, his contributions extend far beyond the scoresheet—his physical presence and ability to win headers provide crucial protection for a vulnerable defense. Valued at €3 million, the experienced centre-back works alongside teammates like Tylel Tati and anchors a backline that must tighten up if Nantes are to climb away from the relegation zone. In these desperate times, Awaziem's consistency and defensive nous could prove the difference between survival and the drop.