A loan move has taken Nigerian forward Olakunle Olusegun from Krasnodar to Russian Premier League side FC Pari Nizhny Novgorod (Pari NN). The 23 year old joins on loan for the 2025/26 season after playing a starring role in Krasnodar’s title‑winning 2024/25 campaign.
Olusegun, having recently earned his first senior cap in Nigeria’s friendly against Russia, was a key figure in the championship season, scoring two league goals across 19 appearances, along with a goal and assist in cup ties.His contribution helped Krasnodar secure the club’s first-ever Russian Premier League title in May 2025.
The loan arrangement comes as Olusegun continues to seek regular top-flight minutes. Krasnodar had recently extended his contract through to 2028 after the Nigerian adapted well to Russian football since joining in 2021.
FC Pari NN, previously known as FC Nizhny Novgorod before its rebranding in mid‑2022, has aimed to strengthen its attacking options with the addition of Olusegun, who brings pace and experience to a squad that narrowly avoided relegation last season. The loan ensures he remains in Russia’s top tier, while Krasnodar retain his long‑term registration.
Editorial
We see this move as a strategic step for both Olakunle Olusegun and Krasnodar. By agreeing to a loan, Olusegun gains vital playing time, while Krasnodar preserves his contract and potential development without blocking his pathway.
We are impressed that Olusegun, only recently capped for the Super Eagles in a versus Russia, now embarks on a new challenge. His role in Krasnodar’s historic league triumph, combined with his versatility and youth experience, suggests he is now ready for greater responsibility.
We consider this loan to Pari NN as prudent he remains in Russian top-flight competition, earning regular minutes and exposure, without risking stagnation on the bench. For Pari NN, a club that finished perilously close to relegation, acquiring a dynamic Nigerian forward boosts their attack and freshens the squad with ambition.
We believe Olusegun’s best years remain ahead of him. The loan gives him a platform to shine, reassert his credentials internationally, and perhaps attract interest from other leagues. Krasnodar retain a talented asset, and if he flourishes, they may recall or profit from future offers.
We maintain that this move embodies a balance between player ambition and club strategy. With regular performances in mind, Olusegun’s time at Pari NN could well be a stepping‑stone to bigger opportunities, reinforcing our confidence in the decision as one that serves all parties.
Did You Know?
Olakunle Olusegun scored the fastest goal in Russian Premier League history—less than nine seconds into a match against Rostov in October 2022.
He emerged through Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets side at the 2019 U‑17 World Cup, scoring against the Netherlands before Nigeria exited in the Round of 16.
Before joining Krasnodar, he played in Denmark’s second tier for Fremad Amager, where he netted 12 goals with four assists in the 2020/21 campaign.
Since March 2024, Krasnodar had tied him down until June 2028, recognising his growing influence and potential with a contract extension.
English Championship clubs including Watford, Middlesbrough, QPR and Millwall reportedly made initial enquiries about signing him in mid‑2025.