Official: Nigerian teenager Joel Yakubu joins Czech club Slovan Liberec from Abuja’s Mahanaim FC

Young Nigerian midfielder Joel Yakubu has completed a move to Czech Republic Premier League club, Slovan Liberec, after signing a three-year contract, Soccernet.ng reports.

The deal was confirmed by his former club, Mahanaim FC, following a successful medical.

At just 18 years old, Yakubu, who is popularly known by his nickname “Spirit,” has already garnered significant attention for his talent and vision in the middle of the park.

In a statement released by Abuja-based Mahanaim FC, the club expressed pride in Yakubu’s development.

“This is to announce the transfer of our midfielder Joel Yakubu (@spiritual_01) to @FCSlovanLiberec. The 18-year-old midfielder sealed a three-year deal to the Czech top side following a successful medical. We wish you all the best in Czech’

????OFFICIAL

This is to announce the transfer of our midfielder Joel Yakubu (@spiritual_01) to @FCSlovanLiberec

The 18-year-old midfielder sealed a three-year deal to the Czech ???????? top side following a successful medical.

We wish you all the best in Czech???????? #WeAreMahanaimFC ???? pic.twitter.com/fEpm8coJz5— Mahanaim Football Club (@mahanaimFC) September 19, 2024

Yakubu himself took to social media to express his excitement about the move.

“Thrilled to announce I’ve signed my first professional contract with @slovanliberec in the Czech 1st League! Grateful to @mahanaimFC for the foundation & to my family, friends, coaches, and media for their support. Can’t wait to begin!”

✍️????????????????????????????????

Thrilled to announce I've signed my first professional contract with @slovanliberec in the Czech 1st League!

Grateful to @mahanaimFC for the foundation & to my family,friends, coaches,media for their support

Can't wait to begin!

#NewHome #Deal #TeamSlovan pic.twitter.com/r0Co1DxYHX— Joel Yakubu (@spiritual_01) September 19, 2024

Yakubu’s talent first caught the attention of Slovan Liberec after his standout performances for Mahanaim FC, where he was pivotal in both scoring and assisting.

His move follows closely on the heels of his former teammate, Yahaya Lawali, who also signed with a Czech club, MFK Karvina.

Slovan Liberec coach Jakub Harant expressed his enthusiasm for Yakubu’s potential after the youngster scored in his debut for the club’s B-team.

“Joel has quick control of the ball, good overview of the game, and calmness in finishing. We believe that he will continue to improve and his role in the club will become more and more prominent.”

Zápasovou premiéru v dresu našeho B-týmu včera absolvoval osmnáctiletý Joel Yakubu. ????????
„Joel se k nám připojil už v srpnu. Věkově ještě může nastupovat za kategorii U19, nyní poprvé naskočil do zápasu. Mám radost, že se hned prosadil gólově. Myslím, že předvedl pro něj typickou… https://t.co/Sct0l2PZAU— FC Slovan Liberec (@FCSlovanLiberec) September 19, 2024

Yakubu now has the opportunity to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage as he begins his professional journey in Europe.