Promising Gambian forward Ebou Sama has completed a permanent transfer to Croatian top-flight side NK Istra 1961 from Steve Biko FC, signing a five-year professional contract as he begins the next chapter of his career in Europe.
The 18-year-old striker expressed immense gratitude and excitement after sealing his first professional move abroad.
“I am thanking my parents for always being there for me,” Sama exclusively told Footy-Africa. “I also want to thank my academy where everything started, my former club Steve Biko, and a special thanks to my agent Cherno Samba for making this happen and helping me sign my first professional contract. I am very excited, full of energy, and I cannot wait to start my professional career.”
Ebou #Sama je novo pojačanje zeleno žutih! 🔥 Svoj ugovor s klubom je potpisao do 2030., a više pročitajte na https://t.co/iq2CrBR9wM.
Dobro nam došao i sretno u nastavku! 💚💛#ForzaIstra pic.twitter.com/kHU1jpQX8F
— NK Istra 1961 (@NKIstra1961) March 14, 2026
Sama’s move comes after a period of interest from clubs across Europe. In November 2025, the young Gambian travelled to England for a two-month trial with Nottingham Forest, but he and his representatives eventually decided that a move to Croatia would provide the best pathway for his development.
“Me and my camp sat down and discussed what would be the best decision for my career, and we felt Istra was the right choice for my development,” he explained. “There were other clubs in Europe interested, but we believe this is the place where I can get game time. Like my agent always tells me, there is not only one way to the top—there are many paths.”
The decision reflects Sama’s determination to gain first-team football early in his career as he works toward reaching the highest level of the game.
Ebou Sama set for Croatian move as NK Istra 1961 secure Gambian striker
The journey to completing the transfer, however, was not without its challenges. Sama revealed that the process involved significant sacrifices and patience while dealing with travel and documentation requirements:
“It has not been easy, as you can imagine, with the paperwork. My camp has been working tirelessly to make this happen. People don’t realize the obstacles and sacrifices involved. For example, I had to stay in Morocco for a long time waiting to obtain my visa with my camp.”
Known for his pace, energy, and attacking threat, Sama is eager to prove himself in the Croatian top division and repay the faith shown in him by his new club.
“I want to bring my energy, my pace, and hopefully some goals. My camp has done everything for me to succeed, and now it’s up to me. I will give everything, work hard, and make sure I become the best version of myself,” he concluded.
Sama’s move represents another step forward for Gambian footballers seeking opportunities in Europe, with the young striker hoping to establish himself in Croatia before aiming for even greater heights in the future.
