Nigerian winger Mohammed Garba has completed a move to Slovakian side AS Trenčín, bringing an end to a difficult 12 months in his young career.
A source close to the player and involved in the transfer told Footy-Africa that Garba’s resilience was crucial in helping him overcome the challenges he faced after returning from Israel.
“I must say we are happy that the deal was able to cross the line because the boy deserves all the best he can get,” the source said. “To be honest, I have not met a footballer with the mental strength he has. A lot happened in Israel and, if it were another player, he may have given up on his dream.”
“It was a lot of stress for him, but he kept working hard on his craft. Now he has the opportunity to show his talent in a place that can help him develop further. A lot of Nigerians have played for Trenčín, including Moses Simon, Kingsley Madu and Azango. Emeka Umeh has also played there, as well as several players from Jos and Golden Boy Soccer Academy.”
“A few teams from Sweden, Lithuania, Denmark, Belgium and elsewhere wanted him, but we felt the Trenčín deal was the best option for his development. We can only wish him well as he begins his career in Slovakia.”
The 18-year-old burst onto the scene with Nasarawa United during the 2024/25 season, producing a series of impressive performances from the flanks that quickly attracted interest from clubs outside Nigeria.
His progress earned him an invitation to train in Israel, where he successfully completed his trial. However, the move eventually fell through amid the escalating crisis in the Middle East and a failure to reach an agreement over the transfer fee.
Mohammed returned to Nigeria and was forced to rebuild his career from scratch. Despite the setback, the teenager continued working hard and eventually attracted offers from clubs in Lithuania, Belgium, Israel, Sweden and Denmark.
He ultimately chose Trenčín, completing his move from Nigerian National League side Neurosparks as he begins his European adventure.
Mohammed will now hope to put the difficult period behind him and make the most of his opportunity in Slovakia as he takes his first major step into European football.
