Nigerian teenager Linus Zika has completed a move to Czech giants Sparta Prague, capping a remarkable rise from academy prospect to European recruit in just over a year.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa after his unveiling, the left-footed winger said he is fulfilling a childhood dream and cannot wait to help Sparta Prague win titles.
“I feel great and excited about the opportunity, as it is what I have been waiting for, and the dream has finally come true. I want to thank God because he made it possible for me, so I am grateful to him and everybody involved in this move, with special appreciation to Sporting Lagos too.”
“I decided to come to Prague because they are a very big club in the country, and a good place for a player like me to grow and develop. I am happy I joined them because they showed they really wanted me, and now it is my turn to repay the faith in my talent. Hopefully, I can stake a claim in the first team, help the club win trophies, and develop into one of the best players at the club, and in the world.”
Zika joined the Sporting Lagos academy in August 2024 and quickly made his mark, catching the eye with his rapid development. His breakout moment came at the 2025 Gothia Cup, where standout performances put him firmly on the radar of top European clubs, drawing interest from Copenhagen, Malmö FF, and Sparta Prague.
The forward went on to make his first-team debut for Sporting Lagos in November 2025, playing a key role in the club’s promotion back to the Nigeria Premier Football League with a string of impressive displays.
That form proved decisive in the transfer race, with Sparta Prague fending off competition from their Scandinavian rivals to secure his signature.
The 18-year-old is expected to start with the reserves as he acclimatises to life in Europe, with the club hoping to fast-track him into the first team as soon as possible.
