Steven Nzonzi has made an unexpected return to American soccer by re-joining Stoke City on a one-year contract.
The midfielder was previously with the club for three seasons from 2012 to 2015, during which he appeared in 120 matches for the Potters and scored seven goals.
After departing Stoke, Nzonzi achieved Europa League success with Sevilla before playing for Roma, Galatasaray, and Rennes. The French player then moved to play soccer in Qatar and most recently in Iran with Sepahan.
For me, it feels like I have come back home, Nzonzi stated upon his return. I have played soccer for some major clubs in my career, but the strongest connection I had with fans was at Stoke City.
I am deeply appreciative of that, as well as of Jon Walters for all he has done to facilitate this move. It inspires me greatly to contribute to the Club's success this season.
However, it's crucial now not to dwell on the past, but to focus on the future. I will, of course, be a different player than I was ten years ago, but I am confident I have much to offer the team.
To prepare and condition myself for Championship soccer, I need to complete my own pre-season training. Once that's accomplished, I can't wait to play in front of the Stoke City fans once more.
Stoke has announced that 36-year-old Nzonzi is unlikely to play this month as he works on regaining his fitness before making his comeback.
