Nigerian playmaker Chidera Ejuke, whose flair has made him a fan favourite at Sevilla, is edging closer to a long-awaited La Liga return from the sidelines, Soccernet.ng reports.
Injured during Sevillaโs heavy 5-1 defeat to Barcelona on October 21, the dynamic winger has spent 67 days recovering from a hamstring injury.
However, all signs now point to a January comeback, offering a crucial boost to Garcรญa Pimientaโs side.
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Ejuke, who opted for conservative treatment over surgery, has been steadily progressing. He resumed ball work on December 7, sparking hopes of a return to action soon.
The 27-year-old wingerโs recovery timeline suggests he could rejoin training by mid-January, with an eye on featuring in Sevillaโs away match against Girona on January 19.
Manager Garcรญa Pimienta has hinted at Ejukeโs imminent return, stating: โEjuke could be training with us in mid-January and, if all goes well, he would participate in official matches towards the end of January or beginning of February.โ
Chidera Ejuke boost for Sevilla
Sevillaโs erratic form has seen them slip behind in their objectives, and Ejukeโs return comes as a timely reinforcement.
Before his injury, Ejuke dazzled with his pace, technique, and ability to link play on the left flank, recording one goal and several standout performances in nine matches.
The Super Eagles winger, who joined after a spell at Antwerp, was named Sevillaโs Player of the Month for September.
In October, he was rated ahead of Barcelona Lamine Yamal and Real Madridโs Vinicius and Mbappe as the top dribbler in Europeโs major leagues.
Since his absence, no Sevilla player has fully claimed the left-wing role, with interim solutions like Idumbo, Lukรฉbakio, and even Iheanacho struggling to replicate his impact.
Pimienta will hope that Ejukeโs return restores balance and creativity to Sevillaโs attack.
Girona: Chidera Ejukeโs comeback target
The Girona fixture presents a challenging but vital opportunity for Ejukeโs comeback.
The Catalan side boasts an intimidating home record, but even a cameo appearance from the Super Eagles star could galvanize Sevillaโs attacking efforts.
As Pimienta emphasised, Ejukeโs fitness will be carefully managed, but fans can expect the winger to make a phased return.
His recovery represents more than just a personal milestone โ it signals hope for a Sevilla side looking to reignite their season.
The Nigerian internationalโs return could very well be the spark Sevilla needs to turn their fortunes around.