Nigerian prodigy Hafiz Ibrahim has revealed why he chose to turn down a potential move to Premier League giants Chelsea, despite encouragement from England international Raheem Sterling.
The 19-year-old shot to global prominence last year after an impressive run in the prestigious Viareggio Cup in Italy, where he scored 10 goals in just six matches, making him one of Europe’s most coveted young talents.
Several top clubs, including teams from Norway, showed interest in Ibrahim, but when Chelsea came calling, the teenager flew to London for a trial, encouraged by a direct video call from Sterling.
In an interview with The Punch, Ibrahim said, “Sterling is a great guy. He was really supportive and encouraging.
He told me that Chelsea would be a great environment for me to grow and improve as a player. It meant a lot to have someone like him, who has been at the top, believe in me.”
Despite the strong endorsement, Ibrahim ultimately decided not to sign with Chelsea. “I was very close to signing, but ultimately, I decided it wasn’t the right time for me. It was a tough decision, but I think it was the right one in the long run.”
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The Nigerian forward went on to explain, “I felt that I wasn’t quite ready for such a big move. Chelsea is a huge club, and I wanted to make sure I was fully prepared to take on the challenge. I didn’t want to rush into anything, and I felt that I needed more time to develop.”
Ibrahim then chose a different path, signing with Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims, where he believes he can continue his development in a more measured environment.
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“Reims is a club with a great tradition and a strong focus on developing young talent,” he explained. “The coach and the staff made me feel welcomed and valued from the start.
Photo by Imago
I see Reims as a place where I can grow, improve, and eventually take my game to the next level.”
Ibrahim has since impressed at Reims, scoring nine goals in nine appearances for the B team, along with a goal and two assists in seven senior matches.
