Slovenian side NK Celje have announced the signing of Nigerian midfielder Papa Daniel, sealing a deal that runs through June 2028, www.naijnaira.com reports.
Daniel, 23, leaves Nigerian club Niger Tornadoes after a season filled with standout moments and joins the growing list of Nigerians who have suited up for NK Celje.
According to the club’s official statement published on their website, Daniel is now the seventh Nigerian to play for the former Slovenian champions.
He scored four goals and registered three assists in 21 league matches last season, delivering strong performances from his holding midfield role.
Daniel’s development traces back to Fackson Nextpro Football Academy, a known launchpad for young Nigerian footballers with overseas ambitions.
His first spell in Europe came at just 19 when he signed with Turkish side Adanaspor, before later returning to Nigeria to play for Sporting Supreme FC.
After two and a half seasons, he joined Niger Tornadoes, where his performances earned the attention of national selectors.
Earlier this year, he received his first senior Super Eagles call-up and made his debut in May during a 2-1 win over Ghana in a Unity Cup friendly.
Though left out of March’s World Cup qualifiers, Daniel’s inclusion against Ghana marked a key milestone in his career under coach Eric Chelle.
He was also a core player for the Super Eagles B team that clinched a CHAN spot but is now unavailable for the tournament due to his overseas move.
Coach Chelle has begun reshaping the squad, with Nigeria B recording three pre-CHAN warm-up wins and a final test lined up against APR FC.
Daniel becomes part of an elite group of Nigerians to play for Celje, including Sunday Chibuike, Sunny Omoregie, and Sunday Adetunji.
Celje, who won the Slovenian title in both 2020 and 2024, wrapped up last season in fourth place and are aiming for another title push.
Article updated 1 day ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
