Zaidu Sanusi, the defender for the Super Eagles, faces uncertainty about participating in the AFCON 2024 final. Reports suggest a potential return against Cote d’Ivoire, but other sources question his availability.
Head coach Jose Peseiro expresses doubt about Sanusi’s presence in the final. As of the latest updates, it remains unclear if Zaidu Sanusi will play in the AFCON 2024 final.
Meet Zaidu Sanusi: Introduction
Zaidu Sanusi, born on 13 June 1997 in Jega, Kebbi State, Nigeria, is a prominent Nigerian professional footballer.
Currently playing as a left-back for Porto in the Primeira Liga and representing the Nigeria national team, Sanusi has carved a remarkable path in the world of football.
Biography
At the age of 26 (as of 2024), Zaidu Sanusi has become a key player for Porto, showcasing his skills on the field. Hailing from Jega, Kebbi, he embarked on his football journey with Gil Vicente F.C. in 2016, marking the beginning of his senior career in Portugal.
Early Life and Education
Sanusi’s early life in Nigeria laid the foundation for his football career. Growing up in Jega, Kebbi State, he honed his skills and passion for the sport, setting the stage for his future success.
Unfortunately, details about his education remain undisclosed.
Career
The football odyssey of Zaidu Sanusi unfolded in Portugal, where he played for Gil Vicente, Mirandela, and Santa Clara before joining Porto in 2020.
His notable achievements include winning the Primeira Liga and Taça de Portugal double with Porto in 2022. Sanusi’s impact on Porto continued, earning him recognition with a five-year contract in August 2020.
His remarkable performances, such as the winning goal in O Clássico against Benfica, contributed to Porto’s 30th league title.
Despite facing challenges like a muscle injury in 2022–23, Sanusi’s dedication and skill remained evident, solidifying his position as a valuable asset for Porto.
Gil Vicente F.C. Beginnings (2016)
In 2016, Zaidu Sanusi inked a deal with Gil Vicente F.C. in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. Shortly after, he embarked on a loan stint with SC Mirandela, a third-division club, in January 2017.
Move to C.D. Santa Clara (2019)
Zaidu reached an agreement with C.D. Santa Clara on March 16, 2019, and officially joined the team on July 1.
His debut in the Portuguese top-flight occurred on September 15, 2019, in a 2–0 home victory against Moreirense FC.
Notably, he netted his first goal in a historic 4–3 away win over S.L. Benfica on June 23, 2020.
FC Porto and Achievements (2020–2021)
On August 30, 2020, Sanusi signed a five-year contract with FC Porto. His inaugural goal came on November 25, opening a 2–1 win at Olympique de Marseille in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
His first trophy, the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, was secured on December 23, 2020.
Sanusi remained a key player in the 2021–22 season, contributing significantly to FC Porto’s 30th league title.
He continued his success by playing a pivotal role in the Taça de Portugal final, helping his team defeat Tondela 3–1.
Challenges and Triumphs (2022–2023)
In the 2022–23 season, Sanusi faced competition for a starting position but continued to showcase his skills.
Despite a muscle injury in a Champions League match against Atlético Madrid in November, he made a triumphant return in February.
International Debut and Performance
Zaidu Sanusi made his debut for the Nigeria national team on October 9, 2020, in a friendly against Algeria.
His first official cap came in November of the same year during a 4–4 draw with Sierra Leone in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Career Statistics
Here’s a breakdown of Zaidu Sanusi’s career statistics:
Mirandela (Loan) – 2016–2019
- Appearances: 71
- Goals: 3
Santa Clara – 2019–2020
- Appearances: 27
- Goals: 1
Porto – 2020–2024
- Appearances: 121
- Goals: 7
Total Career Appearances: 222
Total Career Goals: 11
International Contributions
As of February 2, 2024, Zaidu Sanusi has made 21 appearances for the Nigeria national team, with no goals to his name.
Honours
Zaidu Sanusi’s contributions have garnered several honors for FC Porto, including:
- Primeira Liga: 2021–22
- Taça de Portugal: 2021–22, 2022–23
- Taça da Liga: 2022–23
- Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira: 2020, 2022
Personal Life
Known for his private nature, Zaidu Sanusi keeps his personal life away from the public eye.
As of the latest information available, he is not married and has not disclosed details about his relationship status.
Sanusi maintains a discreet approach, making it challenging to confirm his marital status or the existence of a girlfriend.
Parents: Father and Mother
While details about Zaidu Sanusi’s parents remain undisclosed, it aligns with his private nature.
The football star has chosen not to share information about his family background, respecting his desire for privacy.
Siblings: Brother and Sister
Unfortunately, there is no available information about Zaidu Sanusi’s siblings.
His focus on football and preference for privacy extends to his family life, leaving fans curious but respecting his boundaries.
Net Worth (as of 2024)
Zaidu Sanusi’s success on the football field has translated into financial prosperity.
As of 2024, his estimated net worth stands at $2.2 million (N1 billion Naira), a testament to his accomplishments and contributions to the sport.
Background Information
| Full Name | Zaidu Sanusi |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 13 June 1997 |
| Age (as of 2023) | 26 years old |
| Place of Birth | Jega, Kebbi State, Nigeria |
| Height | 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in) |
| Position(s) | Left-back |
| Current Team | Porto |
| Number | 12 |
| Youth Career | 2013–2016: Jega United |
| Senior Career | 2016–2018: Gil Vicente (0 Apps, 0 Gls) 2017–2018: Mirandela (loan) (39 Apps, 0 Gls) 2018–2019: Mirandela (32 Apps, 3 Gls) 2019–2020: Santa Clara (24 Apps, 1 Gl) 2020–: Porto (71 Apps, 5 Gls) |
| International Career | 2020–presents: Nigeria (21 Apps, 0 Gls) |
In conclusion
Zaidu Sanusi’s journey from the streets of Jega, Kebbi State, to the prestigious fields of Porto reflects a story of determination, skill, and success.
His dedication to football, coupled with a private personal life, adds an air of mystery to the Nigerian football star, making him a captivating figure both on and off the field.
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