Nigerian goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has little to celebrate as he enters the New Year, with reports indicating that he is preparing to leave Marumo Gallants after a short and tumultuous spell with the club. The veteran goalkeeper, who joined Gallants in 2023, now finds himself packing his bags, with his future uncertain as he looks to secure a move away from the South African side.
Akpeyi, who previously enjoyed a successful career with Kaizer Chiefs, made the switch to Marumo Gallants in search of more playing time and a fresh challenge. However, his time at Gallants has been far from smooth sailing. Despite his experience and ability between the sticks, Akpeyi has struggled to establish himself as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper at the club. The Nigerian international has faced stiff competition from other shot-stoppers within the squad, which has led to inconsistent playing time and growing frustration.
Sources close to the club suggest that Akpeyi’s relationship with Gallants has deteriorated over time, with both parties seemingly at odds over his role at the club. His limited appearances have raised questions about his future, and it now appears inevitable that the Nigerian goalkeeper will be looking for a new home as the January transfer window opens.
While Akpeyi’s reputation as a seasoned international goalkeeper still holds weight, his lack of regular first-team action at Gallants has dimmed his prospects, and the club’s recent decisions have further complicated his situation. Despite the talent he brings to the table, Akpeyi’s time at Gallants appears to be coming to an end, with many predicting that a move away from the club is imminent.
For Akpeyi, who has represented Nigeria at the highest level, this setback is a disappointing one. The 38-year-old goalkeeper, who has previously made significant contributions to clubs like Chiefs and Chippa United, was hoping to continue his career with Marumo Gallants, but his hopes of making an impact have been dashed. As the team has looked for a more consistent and stable solution in goal, Akpeyi has found himself sidelined, leaving him with little choice but to seek a move elsewhere.
While the specifics of his departure remain unclear, it is widely believed that Gallants are looking to move in a different direction in terms of their goalkeeping department. With Akpeyi now on the way out, the club could be planning to recruit a younger goalkeeper to challenge for the No. 1 spot, or perhaps to bring in someone with more competition for Akpeyi’s place.
As for Akpeyi, the next chapter of his career is now a priority. With his contract at Gallants nearing its end, the Nigerian goalkeeper will be hoping to find a new club where he can rebuild his career and once again become a key figure between the posts. Despite the lack of success at Gallants, Akpeyi’s reputation as a reliable goalkeeper with years of experience in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) could attract interest from other clubs in South Africa or abroad.
At 38, Akpeyi still has much to offer, and his time at Gallants will likely serve as a learning experience. As the goalkeeper looks to move on, he will be hoping to secure a deal that provides him with more playing time and an opportunity to continue his footballing journey, either in South Africa or beyond.
The New Year may not have started on the best note for Akpeyi, but he remains determined to find a new club that can offer him the chance to get back to his best. As the January transfer window heats up, the Nigerian goalkeeper’s next move is likely to be one of the most anticipated stories for fans and pundits alike.
