Former Super Eagles forward Michael Eneramo has reportedly died after collapsing during a training session in Kaduna on Friday morning.
According to sources, the tragic incident occurred at the U/Yelwa Mini Stadium in Kaduna, where Eneramo was said to have suddenly slumped while participating in routine exercises. Witnesses at the scene disclosed that efforts were made to assist him, but he was confirmed dead shortly afterwards.
As of the time of filing this report, members of his family are yet to issue an official statement regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.
Born in November 1985, Eneramo began his professional football career with Nigerian club Lobi Stars F.C.. His talent soon attracted international attention, and in 2004 he was scouted by Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
He was subsequently loaned to Algerian side USM Alger between 2004 and 2006, where he scored 13 goals in the Algerian top flight.
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Eneramo enjoyed notable success with Espérance, winning a domestic double in 2007. He later had a brief loan spell with Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab FC in July 2007 before returning to Tunisia later that year.
In January 2011, he moved to Turkey, signing a one-and-a-half-year deal with Sivasspor. After two seasons, he transferred to Beşiktaş J.K. and was loaned out to Karabükspor for the 2013–14 season. During the 2014–15 campaign, he joined İstanbul Başakşehir F.K. on a free transfer.
At one point in his career, Eneramo reportedly considered accepting Tunisian citizenship to become eligible to represent Tunisia at international level. However, he eventually committed his future to Nigeria.
He earned a call-up to the Nigerian national team in 2009 and made his debut on February 11 of that year. In his second appearance for the Super Eagles, he scored the opening goal against the Republic of Ireland, marking an early highlight in his international career.
Eneramo’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football community, with tributes expected from former teammates, clubs and fans in the coming days.