Nigerian Teenager Nefeye Osazee Signs First Professional Contract with Bournemouth

Posted : 02 October 2026

Nigerian youngster Nefeye Osazee has signed his first professional contract with Premier League club AFC Bournemouth, completing another major step in his development after joining the Cherries from Arsenal in July 2026.

Osazee began his football journey at CitySports in Lagos in 2017 when he was six years old. He later moved to England in 2022 and continued his development with Slough Town before earning a place at Arsenal’s Hale End academy following a successful trial.

The youngster reportedly scored 10 goals in nine matches during his Arsenal trial. He spent three years with the North London club and helped Arsenal’s youngsters win the Premier League Under-13 National Cup before moving to Bournemouth.

Bournemouth brought Osazee in as a first-year scholar ahead of the 2026/27 season. Although eligible for the club’s Under-18 side, he has also featured with the development squad and has made appearances in Premier League 2.

He has already made an impact at youth level since arriving at Bournemouth. On August 22, Osazee provided two assists as the club’s Under-18 side defeated Brighton & Hove Albion 7-4, while he was also part of the development squad that travelled to France for pre-season and won the Tournoi Européen.

The signing was made more memorable by the presence of Osazee’s family. Fifteen relatives attended the occasion, including his grandfather, who travelled from Nigeria to witness the teenager sign his first professional deal.

Osazee described the moment as a dream come true and praised Bournemouth’s coaches for the guidance and support they have provided since his arrival. He also said the progress being made at the club has motivated him and his teammates to improve every day.

Bournemouth academy head Sam Gisborne also congratulated Osazee and his family. He highlighted the family’s effort in attending the signing and expressed hope that the youngster will enjoy more important moments at the club.

For CitySports founder and CEO Shola Opaleye, Osazee’s professional contract represents another stage in a journey that began in Lagos. Opaleye said the player’s development reflects the importance of giving young footballers the right environment and allowing their progress to take place over time.

Osazee will now continue his development within Bournemouth’s academy structure as he works towards establishing himself in senior football.

Nigerian Teenager Nefeye Osazee Signs First Professional Contract with Bournemouth

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