AFCON 2017 MVP Bassogog moves to Chinese side on 5-year deal

Cameroonian international, Christian Bassosog, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the just ended African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Gabon, has joined the China football train.

Bassosog moved to the Chinese Super League side, Henan Jianye FC, on a five-year deal from Danish side, Aalborg BK.

He joins the likes of Nigerian skipper and former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel and teammate Odhion Ighalo – formerly of Watford FC.

The 22-year-old’s contract is said to be worth some 7 million euros per year, an amount that he described as an offer he could not refuse.

That's official.AFCON 2017 MVP Christian Bassogog joins Chinese side Henan Jianye FC on a 5-year deal. pic.twitter.com/17c4TKsw5M

— Lotfi Wada (@LotfiWada) February 20, 2017

The midfielder capped a good AFCON showing with a Man of The Tournament trophy in addition to his winner’s medal. His colleague goalie was also named keeper of the tournament.

Bassosog and his teammates under the tutelage of Belgian trainer, Hugo Broos, defied setbacks in their preparations for Gabon with the withdrawal of a number of first team stars.

They however finished second in a Group A, beating debutants Guinea Bissau and drawing with group winners, Burkina Faso and hosts, Gabon.

They defeated Senegal on penalty shootouts at the quarters before dismissing Ghana at the semi-final stage to set a repeat final against Egypt, who beat them in 2008 to win the trophy in Ghana.

Broos’ boys fell behind to an early goal but rallied from behind as Nkoulou (59’) cancelled El Neny’s 22’ lead before Aboubakar hit the winner (88’).