Exclusive: Failed Southampton Striker Paul Onuachu Reveals Why the Style Never Suited Him

Former Southampton striker Paul Onuachu has opened up on his difficult spell at St Mary’s Stadium before reviving his career in Turkey with Trabzonspor.

The Nigeria international joined the Saints from Belgian side Genk for £18m plus add-ons in January 2023, following prolific spells in Belgium and Denmark.

However, his time in the Premier League failed to live up to expectations, with limited game time and a tactical mismatch contributing to a disappointing stint that ended with a move to the Turkish Super Lig last summer.

'A lesson, not the wrong project’

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sportsboom.com, Onuachu insisted he has no regrets about the move to England, describing it instead as a learning experience.

"I wouldn’t say it was the wrong project, but rather a lesson, because it has always been my dream to play in the Premier League," he told SportsBoom.com. 

"I made the decision to go, fully aware that the January transfer window is always difficult, but I went regardless and learned from the experience."

Onuachu arrived at Southampton after scoring 85 goals in 134 games for Genk, having previously netted 71 times in 181 appearances for Danish side FC Midtjylland.

‘The style did not suit my game’

Despite his pedigree, the 31-year-old struggled to replicate that form in England and admitted the team’s approach did not suit his strengths.

"The style of play was actually different. At Southampton, the style did not suit my game, and that was obviously a problem. A lot of things were also going on behind the scenes at that time."

"In Turkey, the style suits me better, and the coach has given me the confidence to play and perform, which is very important for me," he added.

Since returning to Turkey, Onuachu has rediscovered his scoring touch with Trabzonspor, netting 11 goals in the 2025-26 season and going head to head with fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen in the race for the league’s top scorer award.

Views on Turkish officiating

Onuachu also shared his thoughts on the controversy surrounding refereeing standards in the Turkish top flight.

"Honestly, the officiating in Turkey could be better—that’s all I’ll say," he concluded.