Chidera Ejuke: Sevilla coach on Nigerian’s role — “I don’t know the numbers”

Sevilla head coach Luis Garcia Plaza has explained how Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke fit into his plans after his impressive cameo in the 3-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 28-year-old has been heavily linked with an exit from Sevilla throughout the summer, with just one year remaining on his current contract. However, talks over a possible move have broken down, leaving the former CSKA Moscow forward at the Spanish club as the new season gets underway.

The Nigerian has already shown glimpses of his quality, scoring a superb goal in Sevilla’s 3-1 win over Athletic Bilbao last weekend and reminding the club of what he can offer going forward.

He once again impressed against Atletico Madrid on Saturday night despite starting the game on the bench.

Ejuke was introduced in the 55th minute and immediately made an impact, finishing the game with six dribbles — the most by any player, while also winning eight of his 11 ground duels and creating one chance.

However, his efforts were not enough to inspire a comeback as a double from Alex Baena and a goal from fellow Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, who was impressed with his side’s attacking display, secured the victory for Atletico Madrid. 

Garcia Plaza clarifies Chidera Ejuke’s role at Sevilla

Chidera Ejuke has largely been a fringe player since joining Sevilla in 2024, with the winger often used as a substitute.

However, he has been given more playing time since Garcia Plaza took charge earlier this year, and the Spanish coach insists the Nigerian remains an important part of his plans despite starting on the bench again against Atletico.

“Yes, of course. Of course I see it for more. And I, since I’ve been here, I’ve used Chidera Ejuke a lot. I don’t know the numbers with other coaches”, Garcia Plaza revealed post-match.

“When I arrived I had, if I remember correctly, when I put it on the first day against Real Sociedad at home, a huge amount of games without being a starter. With me he has played all three League matches. Last year he participated, I put him in the headline.”

Ejuke’s performance against Atletico will certainly give the coach more reason to consider handing him a starting role more often, especially after the problems he caused the Atletico defence during his time on the pitch.

Garcia Plaza, however, explained that his team’s approach can change depending on the opponent and that selection decisions are also influenced by what he sees from his players in training.

“I mean, I like Chidera Ejuke and I can play in principle. What happens is that it is true that, I have explained, we had a game plan that changes us a day before. Then we believed that the one who best adapted to how we had prepared the game was Julio Díaz”, he added.

“In other words, maybe, if Oso got to leave a week earlier, he would have worked, because they are completely different. I mean, it hasn’t turned out well afterwards, so it doesn’t matter.”

Ejuke will now be hoping to have his future at Sevilla resolved soon while continuing to push for a more prominent role in the team.

The Nigerian winger will also be looking to build on his recent performances when Sevilla face Espanyol next weekend.

A strong run of form could also boost his chances of returning to the Super Eagles setup ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which begin next month.