Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has revealed that Birmingham City’s ambition and long-term vision were key to his decision to join the EFL Championship side despite interest from top-tier European clubs.
The 27-year-old full-back, who previously played for Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, signed a three-year deal with the Blues after rejecting a contract extension under new head coach José Mourinho.
“I think it’s the project,” Osayi-Samuel told the club’s media team. “I spoke to the owner and the manager, and the ambitions of what they want to do intrigued me.”
Having secured promotion back to the Championship last season, Birmingham City are eyeing a swift return to the Premier League—a vision that aligns perfectly with Osayi-Samuel’s personal goals.
“The ambition is not just to compete, but to get straight to the Premier League, and those are my ambitions too,” he said.
Bright Osayi-Samuel. Photo Credit: Imago
“I want to play in the Premier League and show everyone what I can do, so I think Birmingham City have given me a platform to showcase that.”
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Known for his blistering pace and attacking instincts, Osayi-Samuel is confident he can make a difference at St. Andrew’s.
“I’m fast, I like to dribble, and I like to exchange passes between players. I don’t shy away from challenges,” he noted. “I think I can help the team with these attributes.”
The Nigerian international leaves Turkey on a high note after a successful stint with Fenerbahçe, where he featured in European competitions and won the Turkish Cup.
Bright Osayi-Samuel. Photo Credit: Imago
“Playing for the biggest club in Turkey has been an honour,” Osayi-Samuel said. “I feel like I was a kid and they turned me into a man. I’m very grateful and honoured to Fenerbahçe.”
Despite the allure of top-flight football elsewhere, Osayi-Samuel stressed that feeling “wanted” and respected at Birmingham was a major factor in his decision.
“Their ambition matched my personal goals, and they made me feel wanted in their pursuit,” he explained.
“It shows that the club has confidence in you, and they make you showcase your skills because you know they’ve got your back.”
Super Eagles defender Osayi-Samuel. Photo Credit: Getty Images
The versatile defender, who has become a regular for Nigeria in recent years, says playing for the Super Eagles remains one of his greatest honours.
“My parents, especially, they’re usually chock-full whenever I get to represent Nigeria,” he added. “If you look at the team, there are so many good players, so I’m honoured to be there.”
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Now focused on helping Birmingham City reach the Premier League, Osayi-Samuel says he’s ready to repay the club’s faith in him.
“I feel I can help the team fulfil their ambitions, so that’s one of the reasons I came here.”
