Nigel Atangana


Nigel Alfred Steven Atangana is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for club Exeter City.

Career

Early career

Born in Corbeil-Essonnes, Atangana made his senior debuts with US Avranches in CFA 2, after having trials at Luton Town, Gillingham, West Bromwich Albion and Grays Athletic. After subsequently representing SU Dives, he moved to Spain, joining Girona FC and being assigned to CF Riudellots, the club's farm team. Atangana was called up to the main squad in Segunda División in November, but failed to appear with the club.
In the 2013 summer Atangana moved to US Gravelines Foot, also in France's fifth division. He appeared in 21 matches and scored once.

Havant & Waterlooville

In September 2013, Atangana signed with Havant & Waterlooville. He made his debut on the 30th, starting in a 1–1 FA Trophy draw against Gloucester City.
Atangana made his league debut on 19 October, starting in a 0–0 draw against Dover Athletic. He scored his first goal for Hawks on 11 January of the following year, the game's only in a home win against Ebbsfleet United.
Atangana finished the season with 43 appearances and five goals, being named Havant & Waterlooville' Player of the Year.

Portsmouth

On 19 June 2014, Atangana signed a two-year contract with League Two side Portsmouth, for an undisclosed fee. He made his debut for the club on 9 August, coming on as a substitute for fellow debutant Craig Westcarr in a 1–1 away draw against Exeter City.
Atangana scored his first Pompey goal on 20 December, netting the equalizer in a 1–1 draw at Cheltenham Town. He appeared in 30 matches during the campaign, mainly due to the injury of starter James Dunne.

Leyton Orient

On 20 January 2016, Atangana joined Leyton Orient on an 18-month contract until the end of the 2016–17 season for an undisclosed fee. Atangana was given the number 15 upon arrival.

Exeter City

On 20 May 2019 he joined League Two team Exeter City Football Club after leaving Cheltenham Town following a long term Achilles injury. Upon breaking into the side after recovering, he quickly became a fan favourite for his solid defensive play and his consistently high work rate, earning the fan-voted Player of the Month award for December. He scored his first goal for the club in a 2-2 draw at home to Hartlepool United in the F.A. Cup first round.

Personal life

Atangana is of Cameroonian descent.

Career statistics