Croatian side NK Istra 1961 have beaten off competition from across Europe to secure the signature of highly rated Nigerian youngster Momoh Mutari, completing a move that underlines the growing reputation of Mavlon Football Academy as a launchpad for elite talent, Footy-Africa can confirm.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Mavlon Academy head coach Muyiwa Showole expressed pride in Mutari’s journey and confidence in his future.
“I am happy he is finally heading to Istra,” Showole said. “What they proposed for the boy is what we felt was the best fit for him at the moment because we are more interested in his development than anything else.”
Showole revealed that Mutari’s story began far from the European spotlight:
“We first spotted him at a showcase in Ayingba, Kogi State, in North Central Nigeria. He was raw, shy and unassuming, but you could see he was very talented, so we brought him into the academy.”
That potential quickly began to translate into performances.
“He was 15 at the time and we later took him to the Viareggio Cup in Italy, where he was one of the best defenders at the tournament. Udinese showed interest, but a deal could not be done because he was still underage,” he added.
Mutari also had a brief spell with the Flying Eagles under coach Ladan Bosso, an experience that tested his mental strength.
“He had a stint with the U-20s but did not make the final squad. That didn’t deter him. We always tell our players not to lose their head when things don’t go their way. He kept working hard, and now he has this opportunity to show what he can do in Europe,” Showole stated.
Showole believes Mutari’s mentality sets him apart:
“Outside the pitch he is playful, but on the pitch he is a warrior. He is one of the best young defenders in Nigeria and definitely one for the future.”
U redove zeleno žutih stigao je Momoh Maturi te potpisao ugovor do 2030. godine! ✍🏼🔰
👇🏼 Više u nastavku 💭https://t.co/hnQeEBeTwy pic.twitter.com/ow1vKhIzPb
— NK Istra 1961 (@NKIstra1961) January 16, 2026
Mutari, who recently turned 18, has been on the radar of clubs in Italy, Croatia, the Czech Republic and Belgium following his impressive performances at the prestigious Viareggio Cup in Italy last year.
After months of interest and evaluation, NK Istra moved decisively and convinced the Mavlon hierarchy that Croatia offered the right environment for the defender’s next stage of development.
The youngster has signed a four-year contract and is expected to be integrated into the first-team setup, a clear statement of faith in his ability and readiness for European football. Mutari also previously trialed with Nigeria’s U-20 team ahead of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup.
NK Istra already boast Nigerian connections, with Israel Ayuma, Salim Fago and Charles Agada, all former Mavlon players on their payroll.
