Ogbu Eyes Champions League Dream with Slavia Prague

Igoh Ogbu has made it clear that playing in the UEFA Champions League remains his ultimate ambition as he continues to shine with Slavia Prague. The Nigerian centre‑back, who joined the Czech champions from Lillestrøm in January 2023, recently extended his contract until December 2027, reinforcing his commitment to the club’s long‑term vision.

At 25, Ogbu has become a defensive mainstay, featuring in over 90 first‑team matches and helping Slavia secure both the Czech Cup and their 22nd league title. His performances in the 2024–25 season were particularly impressive he helped the club wrap up the title with four games remaining, often turning in dominant displays in aerial duels, clearances and interceptions.

Ogbu’s consistency hasn’t gone unnoticed. Reports indicate interest from Ligue 1 clubs including Lyon, Lille and Lens as well as Turkish side Galatasaray and a Saudi team. However, Slavia rejected a €12 million bid from Galatasaray in February, with the club keen to retain Ogbu’s services ahead of their upcoming Champions League campaign.

Demonstrating focus and determination, Ogbu insists his priority is securing Champions League football. He believes playing at Europe’s top level will be a key step in his growth and continued contribution to the team. With Slavia Prague confirmed for the Champions League group stage next season and a secured spot till 2027, Ogbu now has the perfect platform to pursue his continental dream.

Editorial

We applaud Igoh Ogbu’s dedication to his dream. His decision to commit long‑term to Slavia, amid high-profile interest, reflects maturity and strategic vision. It shows he values development and elite competition over quick wins.

This is a player who has built trust through performance. Sealing the Czech league title with four games to spare underscores his leadership and consistency. His defensive dominance dominating aerial battles, making key interceptions and maintaining composure demonstrates readiness for Europe’s biggest stage.

The rejected €12 million offer is a clear sign of Slavia’s faith in Ogbu. That they prioritise his presence in the backline, especially now they enter the Champions League, speaks volumes about his standing within the club. His ambition to play in the Champions League is more than a personal goal it’s a signal of intent, both for him and Nigeria’s emerging generation of footballers. It’s a call to aspiring players that sometimes staying in a competitive environment is the best route to greatness.

We believe this mindset staying to fulfill potential, embracing the challenge of Europe is exactly what will elevate Ogbu and those who follow him. We share in his ambition and remain confident Europe’s elite floors lie ahead for him. That is where his future begins and we believe he will reach it.

Did You Know?

1. Slavia Prague was established in 1892 by students in Prague, initially as a cycling club before embracing football in 1896.
2. In the 2024–25 season, Slavia Prague won a record 5–0 against Sigma Olomouc, securing the Czech title with games to spare ensuring CL qualification.
3. Since arriving in Europe with Rosenborg, Ogbu progressed through Levanger and Sogndal to Lillestrøm, demonstrating steady development before reaching Slavia.
4. As of May 2025, Ogbu has earned his first senior caps for Nigeria, including call‑ups for the Unity Cup and World Cup qualification squad.
5. Despite Ligue 1 and Turkish interest, Ogbu turned down a major offer and insisted on Champions League football as a condition to leave Slavia Prague.