Onazi for Real?

You do not write a letter to someone you are not interested in, except of course you are compelled to.

But there was no trace of compulsion in Real Madrid’s ‘get-well-soon’ letter to combative Nigerian and Lazio midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi.

Onazi suffered a fractured ankle when he was stamped on by France midfielder Blaise Matuidi during Super Eagles’ 2-0 loss in the round-of-16 game at Brazil 2014 World Cup and in a show of solidarity, Madrid have written to console the player.

“We have learned about your serious injury during the game you played against France. On behalf of our president Florentino Perez and those who work for Real Madrid, we’d like to wish you a smooth and speedy recovery,” wrote Emilio Butragueno, on behalf of Madrid.

“As a former professional footballer, I know you are going through a difficult time, but I’m utterly convinced that eventually, you’ll be back to full fitness to help your team achieve its goals next season.”

Is it just a gesture or is the club interested in the player? Well, you do not write every injured player, especially one who’s angling for a move.

Onazi is back to light training and is expected to join the rest of the Lazio squad for pre-season.