Chennaiyin FC strengthened its attacking lineup by acquiring Nigerian striker Daniel Chima Chukwu. The club announced signing the experienced centre-forward on a two-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2026. This marks Chima’s return to the Indian Super League (ISL), where he has played for East Bengal and Jamshedpur FC.
Chima, 33, brings experience and a proven track record to Chennaiyin FC. He has made a notable impact in his three seasons in the ISL, scoring 20 goals and providing four assists in 60 matches. His tenure at Jamshedpur FC under coach Owen Coyle was particularly impressive. He played a pivotal role in securing the ISL League Shield in 2022. Back then, he netted seven goals in nine games during the winter window of the 2021-22 season.
Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle expressed his excitement about reuniting with Chima. He highlighted the striker’s ability to deliver in crucial moments.
“I brought Daniel to Jamshedpur in the winter window of the 21/22 season. He scored seven crucial goals in nine games to help win us the shield. We have brought a goalscorer with a proven track record in India. We are sure he will fit into this squad seamlessly,” Coyle said.
Chima’s arrival is likely to bolster Chennaiyin FC’s offensive capabilities. His experience and leadership on the field will be invaluable as the team aims to make an impact in the upcoming season.
Daniel Chima Chukwu’s professional career began in 2010 with the Norwegian club Molde FK. He helped the team secure three league titles and two Norwegian Cups during his tenure. Notably, two of these league titles were won under the management of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was also Manchester United’s manager. Chima’s scoring prowess was also evident in his European ventures, where he featured in the Europa League and Champions League Qualifying rounds.
Chima has also played for Polish club Legia Warszawa, guiding them to two league titles. His career includes stints in China with Shanghai Shenxin, Heilongjiang Lava Spring, and Taizhou Yuanda.
Chima highlighted his reuniting with coach Owen Coyle by joining Chennaiyin FC. “It’s very exciting. I wanted to continue the journey, but unfortunately, it ended with him (Coyle leaving JFC). Now the opportunity came back on, and I had to grab the opportunity to play under him,” Chima said.
Chima’s signing is the fourth addition to Chennaiyin FC’s squad for the 2024-25 season. It reflects the club’s ambition to build a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest level. With Chima’s goal-scoring ability and experience, Chennaiyin FC can enhance their offense to aim for greater success in the ISL.
