Welcome to Eden, Igoh Ogbu!
Participant of the 2019 U20 World Cup signed a deal with Slavia until 31 December 2026.
“I feel great and happy how the team has welcomed me. I am glad I could sign a contract here. It’s everyone’s dream to win trophies, to leave a mark in the team you have just joined. To bring unforgettable memories. I wish all this to happen in Slavia.
I am looking forward to playing in front of the fans here. I saw a few games, the Prague Derby for example, and I can imagine how superb atmosphere they can create. And I am also looking forward to meeting my countrymen Peter Olayinka and Moses Usor.
I chose Slavia because I see that it is a good step for me to develop as a footballer, to improve. There is always something to learn. I believe I can fit into the team. There will be challenges everywhere you go, and you must believe in yourself. I need to work hard and focus on my performance.
European competitions have been big motivation for me, that is the best part of playing football. And also the main reason why I chose Slavia. To come here to make big things. Slavia is not about individualities, we all will fight for one team. And that is beautiful,” Ogbu said during the signing at Eden.
The 22-year-old Nigerian centre-back joins Slavia from Norwegian side Lilleström. He came to Norway in 2018, shortly after his 18th birthday, from Gombe United, to join Rosenborg. He left on loan twice to Norwegian second division. Especially his loan to Sogndal turned to be successful a he helped the team to qualify for the promotion play-offs. In summer 2020 he joined Sogndal on a permanent basis, but half a year later he joined Lilleström in the first division.
In the last season of Eliteserien the 187-cm tall defender scored three times and added one assist. Last summer he started to three qualifying games of the UEFA Europa Conference League before Lilleström were eliminated by Royal Antwerp.
Ogbu was member of Nigerian national teams in youth categories. He started to 7 games for the U20 including two games on the 2019 U20 World Cup.