Nigerian forward Olanrewaju Kayode has secured a move to Turkish second-division club Şanlıurfaspor FC, marking a new chapter in his career following a challenging period in his personal life.

Earlier this year, Kayode faced significant personal turmoil, including a highly publicized marital dispute with his wife, Ezinne. Reports alleged that Ezinne had been involved in an extramarital affair with a pastor and had used Kayode’s money to support the pastor’s lifestyle. Further complicating matters, questions arose regarding the paternity of their children, leading to a back-and-forth over a DNA test, culminating in Kayode filing for divorce.

Despite these difficulties, the 31-year-old forward has shifted his focus back to football. After a brief stint with Turkish side Genclerbirligi, which ended in March 2023, Kayode has now signed a one-year contract with Şanlıurfaspor. The Nigerian striker is determined to make an impact at his new club, with hopes of securing a move to a higher-tier team next summer.

Kayode’s career trajectory saw early promise when Manchester City signed him from Austria Vienna in 2015. However, his time with City was marked by multiple loan spells at Girona and Shakhtar Donetsk, before permanently joining Shakhtar in 2018. After further loan stints with Sivasspor and Ümraniyespor, Kayode eventually landed at Genclerbirligi. Now, he aims to revitalize his career with Şanlıurfaspor.