Getafe head coach Jose Bordalas has lauded the rapid development of Christantus Uche, following the Nigerian’s standout performance in their 4-0 victory over Real Valladolid on Sunday.
Uche, who made a €500,000 switch from lower-tier side Ceuta last summer, has been one of Getafe’s most surprising success stories this season.
Originally a central midfielder, Uche was converted into a striker by Bordalas at the start of the campaign—a gamble that is paying off handsomely.
On Sunday, the 22-year-old provided two assists, setting up the first two goals in what turned out to be a dominant win for the Madrid-based side. The result lifted Getafe to 11th in the La Liga table.
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Speaking after the match, Bordalas praised Uche’s willingness to adapt and grow in an unfamiliar role.
“Uche is a kid who hadn’t played professional football, who had been playing as a central midfielder, and we had to adapt him as a striker in the first league game,” the coach said via Futbol Fantasy.
“From then on, he’s been playing closer to a striker than a central midfielder. We’ve been explaining to him that it’s a different position, that he had to be dynamic, play more facing forward, and he’s been understanding it. He’s growing, obviously, as a footballer.”
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Uche in action for Getafe against Espanyol. Photo Credit: Imago
Despite being overlooked by the Super Eagles so far, Uche’s performances have not gone unnoticed. He now has three goals and five assists in 28 La Liga appearances and has reportedly attracted interest from top clubs including Chelsea.
If his upward trajectory continues, a summer move—and a potential Super Eagles debut—may not be far away.
