Just when most European based stars are being woed with astronomical wages and remuneration in China, a modest Chinese league one team Xinjiang Tianshan made a timely move for a double swoop on John Chibuike and Gbolahan Salami. As is the natural case, when players have to sacrifice the natural progression of their careers in Europe for Asia, they would only do that at outrageous demands. What could have been a dream partnership of the mercurial attacking midfielder and a natural finisher hit a dead end at the 11th hour, simply because Gbolahami Salami’s parent club Kups saw it worth holding on to the man who gave them a club record 14 goals in 31 appearances
On the other end John Chibuike had a successful career when he left Enugu Rangers for Europe through clubs like Bk Hacken, Rosenborg, Gaziantespor and AIK. “Only a hefty package similar to all other stars that trekked down to CSL is sufficient to land my signature” said John as we caught up with him on his way to Israel to sign for Hapoel Tel Aviv. In an unusual sudden turn around of events, the 28 yr old nearly quit his base on a day before he finally signed for the Israeli side when Joe Mhondiwa put him through on a conference call with the determined Chinese side that was erking for his services. However, Hapoel upped up their act, knowing very well they were bound to loose and signed him the next day. Xinjiang responded by roping in Yves Ekwalla Herman and Babacar Gueye instead.#ToGodBeTheGlory#