Chimezie Metu: Barcelona announces surgery for Nigerian star

Nigerian-American basketball star Chimezie Metu has recently undergone surgery in the United States to address a ruptured Achilles tendon in his right leg.

Following the injury, Metu who joined Barcelona from the NBA is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season.

Metu, who has quickly become a fan favorite among FC Barcelona supporters), shared his heartfelt thoughts in an emotional letter titled

In the letter, Metu expressed deep gratitude to the Barcelona fans, his teammates, coaches, and the broader club community for their unwavering support.

He said, "I wish I could put into words how grateful I am to the both the club and city of Barcelona for all the love and support over the last 7 months, my expectations were exceeded in every way from the moment I landed in Barcelona."

"I know that this club holds a special place in my heart forever.

"You brought back the joy in doing the thing I love most, playing basketball for a club that I grew up watching and hearing the roar in Palau, every game and hearing you sing during the game, I hope we’re not apart for too long."

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Before the injury, Metu had been a standout performer for Barcelona, averaging 11 points per game in the EuroLeague and 13.2 points in the Liga ACB,

Metu spent several seasons in the NBA, playing for teams like the Spurs, Phoenix Suns, and Detroit Pistons, before signing with FC Barcelona in 2024 to compete in the Liga ACB and EuroLeague.