Kingsley Michael: Modica Calcio sign Nigeria midfielder after spell without a club

Nigeria midfielder Kingsley Michael has joined Modica Calcio after spending the months before the move without a club.

The 26-year-old central midfielder’s move to the Italian side was completed on 14 August 2026. Michael had most recently been with Vibonese, whom he left in December 2025, before securing a return to club football with Modica.

Michael brings experience from several European leagues to the Serie D side. He has made 38 appearances in Serie B, scoring once and providing three assists, while also recording three Serie A appearances during his career in Italy.

The right-footed midfielder began his senior development at Bologna after moving from Abuja FC to the club’s under-19 side in 2017. He subsequently spent time on loan at Perugia, Cremonese, Reggina and SV Ried, gaining experience in Italy, Austria and Germany.

His spell with SV Ried came during the 2022-23 season, before he returned to Bologna. In September 2023, Michael left the Italian club to join Austrian side DSV Leoben. He later moved to Tunisia’s US Monastir in 2025 and then had two spells with Vibonese during the 2025-26 campaign.

At youth level, Michael was part of the Nigeria Under-17 team that won the Under-17 World Cup in 2015. He also made 25 appearances in Primavera 1, scoring twice and contributing three assists, during his time in Italian football’s youth system.

Modica compete in Serie D, Italy’s fourth tier, and Michael’s arrival adds a midfielder with experience of senior football across Italy, Austria, Germany and Tunisia. His career record also includes appearances in the Bundesliga, 2. Liga, Ligue 1 and the Austrian Cup.

Born in Owerri, Michael stands 1.76m tall and is listed as a central midfielder. His previous Italian clubs include Bologna, Perugia, Cremonese, Reggina and Vibonese, giving him a substantial understanding of the country’s football system.

Michael’s contract with Modica Calcio runs until 30 June 2027.