Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane has admitted Kelechi Nwakali is set for a likely exit from Oakwell, insisting that a move away would be “the best scenario for all parties”.
The Nigerian midfielder has been absent from recent squads, fuelling speculation about his future. Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield, Hourihane was clear about the situation.
He said: “That’s exactly it, yes,” when asked if Nwakali was still contracted to Barnsley but not currently involved.
On the prospect of him moving on, Hourihane added: “That would be the plan for all parties and the best scenario.
But in terms of ‘fired’, it’s completely wide of the mark and first I’ve heard of it.”
The 26-year-old has been training away from the first team since reportedly returning late from holiday in Nigeria, a move which saw him excluded from recent games against Plymouth Argyle, Burton Albion, Fleetwood Town, Bolton Wanderers and now Peterborough.
Kelechi Nwakali in action for Barnsley. Photo Credit: Barnsley/X
Nwakali still has two years remaining on his contract, a factor that could make any departure more complex.
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The midfielder was an influential figure for Barnsley last season, making 26 appearances across all competitions.
He also won the club’s Goal of the Month and Player of the Month awards in successive months, underlining his impact in the Reds’ midfield.
Kelechi Nwakali. Photo Credit: Tony Johnson
Once regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects, Nwakali captained the Golden Eaglets to victory at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he was named the tournament’s best player.
That earned him a move to Arsenal’s academy, before spells in Spain’s La Liga and Portugal preceded his arrival in South Yorkshire.
While Nwakali’s future appears to be away from Barnsley, Hourihane also moved to calm concerns over Patrick Kelly, who was substituted during the Reds’ 1-0 victory at Peterborough United on Tuesday night.
The 19-year-old, making his first League One start, was forced off in the second half but his manager stressed it was nothing serious.
Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane. Photo: Tony Johnson.
Hourihane explained: “It was just a bit of cramp. He’s not had as many starts as he would like. It’s nothing major.”
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Barnsley’s win, sealed by a Caylan Vickers strike which deflected in off Posh defender David Okagbue, extended their unbeaten start to the League One campaign to four matches.
The Reds have collected 10 points from a possible 12, and their defensive record has impressed Hourihane.
