Taione Richard Evumena Sodje (born 20 September 2003) is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for club Walsall.
Club career Born in Sheffield to an English mother and Nigerian father, Sodje began his footballing career with local side Sheffield United, before a switch to Premier League side Manchester City in 2015. He signed a professional contract with Manchester City in July 2021. Despite suffering an injury in late October 2021, which he described as the worst moment of his career, he returned to action for Manchester City's youth teams in April 2022.
On 11 June 2025, Sodje was released by Manchester City.
On 7 August 2025, Sodje signed for National League North club Buxton, making his debut on the opening day of the season against Radcliffe. And Helped Buxton F.C win 6-0 Over Alfreton Town F.C.
On 17 July 2026, Sodje signed for League Two club Walsall on a 2 year deal with an option of a further year.
International career Eligible to represent both England and Nigeria, Sodje reportedly turned down an invitation to the England under-19 squad in October 2021. He was quoted in May 2022 as saying he would choose to represent whichever nation approached him first.
Style of play Described by Manchester City as a "prolific goal-scorer" and a "versatile striker [who] can also operate to impressive effect on both the right or left flanks", Sodje describes himself as a "goal scorer", capable of playing "across the front three".
Personal life Sodje is the son of former professional rugby league player Bright Sodje, and the nephew of former Nigerian international footballers Efe and Sam Sodje, as well as former professional footballer Akpo Sodje.
Career statistics
Club
+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competitionClubSeasonLeagueFA CupEFL CupOtherTotal DivisionAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsManchester City U212021–22———20202024–25———1010Buxton2025–26National League North6400—0064Career total6400003094
References