Aveley manager Brett Munyard has expressed strong criticism of winger Jesse Nwabueze following the player’s unexpected departure from the club to join King’s Lynn Town. Nwabueze, 22, who joined Aveley from Maidstone in November 2025, contributed eight goals as the Millers secured a second-place finish in the Isthmian Premier League last season.

Munyard said the former Crystal Palace youth player had initially committed to signing a new contract but subsequently absented himself, only to later sign with King’s Lynn Town, a Step 2 side. The manager described the circumstances surrounding Nwabueze’s exit as disappointing, particularly given the player’s prior assurances.

“At the end of last season, we offered Jesse a contract which he agreed to sign,” Munyard said. “He kept delaying, and just two weeks ago, before going on holiday, he told me and his teammates he was staying. Then out of nowhere I received a message saying he had decided to join a Step 2 club. That didn’t sit well with me.”

While Munyard acknowledged the legitimacy of players seeking to advance their careers at higher levels, he emphasized the importance of professionalism when leaving a club. He contrasted Nwabueze’s conduct with that of another departing player, George Wind, who recently moved to Billericay and was praised for his transparency and respectful handling of the transfer.

The timing of Nwabueze’s decision posed significant challenges for Aveley’s recruitment plans. Munyard explained that the club had anticipated retaining Nwabueze, leaving them unprepared to immediately replace him. Fortunately, the manager had already secured the signing of wide midfielder Malachi Napa from Maldon & Tiptree the previous month, a move he deemed fortunate given the circumstances.

“When the season ends, you assess your squad needs. We didn’t plan to look for a left winger because Jesse had agreed to stay. Two weeks before pre-season, that changed,” Munyard said. “By then, you’re scrambling and many targets can be unavailable. Thankfully, my gut feeling led us to act early on Malachi’s signing.”

Aveley have also bolstered their squad with the additions of Louis Dunne, a teammate of Napa’s at Maldon, right winger Max Booth from Peterborough Sports, and striker Eddie Dsane, who netted 26 goals for Dartford over the last two seasons. Munyard described Dsane’s signing as a significant coup and a top target from early in the summer.

“Eddie’s versatility in attack and proven goalscoring record make him an excellent fit,” Munyard said. “His arrival is a statement for the club.”

Looking ahead to the new campaign in the Isthmian Premier League, Munyard underscored the club’s focus on stability coupled with ambition. Aveley were relegated from the National League South in 2025 and aim to improve on last season’s strong finish.

“Our objective from the club’s standpoint is stability, but from my perspective and the players, it’s about winning the league next season,” Munyard stated. “We were the runners-up last year, so we are among the best teams remaining. Eastbourne, who have come down, might be tough competition, but they are undergoing a rebuild like us, so we believe we can be right up there.”