Kaizer Chiefs’ Nigerian goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has admitted that he would like to end his career in Europe, and cannot guarantee that he will remain in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) despite recently signing a new deal.
The 33-year-old has only played in Africa in his club career, featuring for Nigerian teams Gabros International, Nasarawa United, Heartland and Warri Wolves, before moving to South Africa’s Chippa United in 2015.
Last year he made the switch to PSL giants – and current log leaders – Kaizer Chiefs. His contract with the club runs to the end of the 2021-22 season, but Akpeyi would be interested in a move to Europe should the opportunity arise.
“Well, the dream of every player, or let me just say the dream of some African players is to actually play in Europe, where football was invented,” Akpeyi told National Daily as quoted by Punch Newspaper.
“So, if I have the opportunity, yes I will, when the opportunity comes, why not? I would like to finish my career in Europe.”
He added, “There are possibilities that it can happen and I look forward to it.”
The Super Eagles goalkeeper also revealed that he has learned a lot through the 2019-20 season, having been installed as Chiefs’ number one ahead of Itumeleng Khune (who has suffered from injuries through the campaign).
“Frankly speaking, it has been a hell of a competition between us in the goalkeeping department because a lot of us have a lot to offer but most especially with the experience of Itumeleng Khune in the team, being a hero, being a legend, we actually learn from him every day to become better,” Akpeyi explained.
“It has really been positive energy from that department. So, that is why we can say for now that the department is strong and we are more like brothers in that department because we support each other whenever anyone gets the nod to play.”