Former Liverpool winger, who snubbed playing for Nigeria, now clubless at 28

Jordan Ibe, once hailed as the next big thing at Liverpool Football Club, now finds himself at a crossroads at 28.

His career has been marked by unfulfilled potential, questionable decisions, and a lingering “what if” regarding his rejection of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

*Anfield Promise

Ibe joined Liverpool’s academy at 16, making his debut in 2012. Under Brendan Rodgers, he flourished, earning comparisons to Raheem Sterling.

With 41 appearances and four goals for Liverpool, Ibe seemed destined for greatness.

*The Nigeria Snub: A Missed Opportunity?

In 2015, Nigeria’s Super Eagles came calling, seeking to cap Ibe.

Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh personally appealed to Ibe at Liverpool’s Melwood training ground, but he declined, opting to focus on his Liverpool career and potentially play for England.

That decision has been questioned, as Ibe never broke into the England squad, Diaspora Digital Media recalls.

“Ibe’s rejection of Nigeria’s call-up was a missed opportunity,” Oliseh said. “He would have brought pace and skill to our team.”

*Downward Spiral

Ibe’s post-Liverpool career has been underwhelming. At Bournemouth, from 2016 to 2020, he made 78 appearances mostly as a substitute and bagged 5 goals. He was the club-record signing at £15 million.

He made 37 appearances for Derby County from 2020 to 2022, scoring only one goal.

Adanaspor of Turkey came calling in 2022. He made just 7 appearances, with no goal scored, and was released after just a few months.

*Recent Struggles

Ibe’s later pitched tent with Ebbsfleet Town in the UK, where he was released after a brief stint.

His last appearance was in 2022.

*Searching for Redemption

Now, Ibe must reassess his career choices and consider new opportunities. A fresh start, perhaps in a lower division or abroad, could revitalize his career.

“Ibe needs to rediscover his hunger and passion for the game,” said former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp. “He has the talent, but it’s time to deliver.”

*Stats:

– Age: 28
– Nationality: Nigerian-English
– Positions: Winger, Attacking Midfielder
– Career Appearances: 163
– Career Goals: 10
– International Caps: 0 (represented England at U18, U19, U20, and U21 levels).

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook