Exclusive: Bruno Onyemaechi Reflects on Historic Debut Season and Eyes European Glory with Olympiacos

When Nigerian defender Bruno Onyemaechi sealed his move to Greek giants Olympiacos, few could have predicted just how quickly he would rise to prominence. 

Less than a year later, the 26-year-old has already carved his name into the club’s history books, helping Olympiacos clinch the Greek Super League and Greek Cup; a domestic double, in his debut campaign.

It’s a feat not only remarkable for its rarity but also for how seamlessly Onyemaechi adapted to a new footballing culture, pressure-filled environment, and lofty expectations in Piraeus. 

In this exclusive interview, the Super Eagles full-back reflects on his rapid success, settling into life in Greece, and the hunger within the squad to return to European heights after a mixed continental campaign.

Onyemaechi on a dream debut season

Bruno Onyemaechi is still soaking in the magnitude of what he and his Olympiacos teammates achieved this season.

“Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better start to life here. Winning both the league and the cup in my first year, it feels like a dream," he told SportsBoom.com. 

Coming into a club with high expectations and a passionate fan base, Onyemaechi knew the challenge ahead. But what surprised many, even within the Greek football community, was how swiftly he cemented his place in the team.

“The adaptation wasn’t easy at first. New city, new language, new tactics; but I told myself I needed to grow fast. I think what helped me was the trust from the coaches and my teammates. They made me feel part of something from day one.”

“We knew we were building something special”

Olympiacos’ run to the domestic double wasn’t without hurdles. But their consistency across the season, especially in big matches, proved crucial. For Onyemaechi, the emotional high of lifting two trophies in one season was unlike anything he had experienced before.

“It’s hard to describe the feeling,” he said. 

“That moment when we lifted the league trophy; I remembered everything: my move, the tough nights, the fans, everything. And then to also win the Cup… It was special.”

Asked about the mood in the dressing room after sealing the double, Onyemaechi’s eyes lit up: “Celebrations were crazy! But more than anything, it was a feeling of satisfaction. Everyone knew we deserved it. We had a very close group this season, always pushing each other.”

Looking ahead: “Europe is the next mountain to climb”

While Olympiacos conquered Greece this season, their European campaign ended in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League; a step back after winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in the previous year.

Onyemaechi admits that falling short in Europe left a mark on the squad.

“We all felt we could have gone further. We know Olympiacos is a club with history in Europe, and getting knocked out in the Round of 16 wasn’t what we wanted. But it gives us fuel for next season.”

So where does the team need to improve to take that next step?

“Consistency. In Europe, small mistakes can cost you. We need to be sharper, especially away from home. I think we also need to build more depth; the kind that allows us to compete strongly both domestically and on the continent.”

As for his personal ambitions?

“I just want to keep improving. The first season went well, but there’s more to do. I want to help this club fight in Europe and bring more trophies home.”

“I’m proud of what we’ve done, but now it’s time to raise the bar. Olympiacos is about winning; and I want to be part of that tradition for as long as I’m here.”