January 04, (THEWILL) – Table tennis champion, Quadri Aruna, has completed a transfer from German side, TTC RhönSprudel Fulda-Maberzell to Russian champions, Fakel-Gazprom Orenburg, for the remainder of the 2022/2023 season.
The 34-year-old, who has previously played in the Portuguese, French, and German leagues, said he is excited about the new challenge in Russia. He helped Fulda reach the semi-final of the German Cup and the Bundesliga play-off last season.
The Nigerian star was contacted by Fakel-Gazprom in October and the necessary transfer fee was paid for him to join the team in January. Responding to claims that the move was motivated by money, Aruna said: “I know people would be wondering that a lot of money is involved. Of course, money is involved but for me, it is a very good club where I can improve more on my game.
“One of my dreams is to be part of this team in the future and luckily they came by themselves and I was very happy to join this club and I am looking forward to the new challenge.”
Aruna, ranked number 14 in the world and number 1 in Africa by the ITTF, said he is eager to improve his game and help his new club remain atop the Russian league.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.