Gambian international and former AS Roma youth player Bakary Jaiteh has completed a move to Azerbaijan Premier League club Asta Mingaçevir, signing a two-year permanent contract as a free agent, Footy-Africa can confirm.
The 25-year-old midfielder, who last played for Greek side APO Panargiakos, brings a wealth of experience from his journey across European football. Speaking after the announcement, Jaiteh expressed his enthusiasm about joining his new club and outlined the ambition of the project.
“I am excited to be here. It is a very important project with very good players and with experience because the primary and main objective is to become champions,” Jaiteh said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa.
He highlighted the club’s ambition to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for titles.
“They selected the best of players that could help the team to become champions and rise above. The coach and the President called because of the attributes I have, the profile they needed to help the team. They are building the team around some of us. We have Champions League, Europa League, and even English Premier League players,” he added.
Reflecting on his past challenges, Jaiteh recalled a difficult spell in Greece, where he suffered an injury and later faced contractual disputes.
“Last year with the Greek club, everything started well but when I got injured in the middle of the season, they asked me to reduce my salary and I had to sign a clause to that effect. I refused and went into legal battles with them. This time I have to be careful with such situations. I had an offer from a Europa Conference League-bound club, but I chose this project,” he explained.
For Jaiteh, the move to Asta Mingaçevir represents both a fresh start and a chance to align his career with his personal goals.
“This is an important project for many reasons. I am focused on helping the team without rushing. I don’t want to make the same mistakes as last year, so I had to choose a project that matches my objectives. That is why I am here,” Jaiteh concluded.
With his arrival, Asta Mingaçevir secures a versatile midfielder eager to contribute to their push for domestic success, as Jaiteh looks to reignite his career and make an impact in Azerbaijan.
