Nigerian defensive midfielder Adamu Ibrahim Alhassan has been named in the 2024–25 Macedonia First League Team of the Season. In his debut campaign with KF Shkëndija, he impressed with consistent performances across six matches, contributing to both defensive stability and midfield control.
Alhassan, 24, arrived in Macedonian football on 12 July 2023 and quickly became a key figure in Shkëndija’s engine room. Standing at 1.75 m, the graduate from Turkey’s Menemenspor was praised for his disciplined positioning, ball retention and iconical midfield coverage. His steady presence helped the team maintain a solid defensive record.
Recognition in the league’s best XI highlights his rapid adaptation and immediate impact properties that underscore his rising reputation in Europe. Shkëndija coach also credited Alhassan for “adding composure during transition moments,” helping the team stay balanced throughout the season.
Editorial
We salute Alhassan’s meteoric rise in Macedonian football. Making the league’s Team of the Season in your debut year is no fluke it reflects talent, work ethic and mental strength. He arrived from Turkey and quickly demonstrated that Nigerian midfielders can thrive in diverse European systems.
More importantly, his success illustrates a broader trend our players abroad are embracing responsibility early, not merely waiting in reserve. In Shkëndija’s midfield, where games demand composure and grit, Alhassan became an indispensable cog even while young in both age and tenure.
That requires recognition back home. The NFF and analytics-driven scouts should monitor such midfield anchors—not just flashy strikers or forwards. Alhassan’s balanced game offers a model: effective ball retention, defensive coverage and intelligent movement, combined with adaptability to European tactics.
We believe promise like his should spark further investment. Support systems, regular evaluation, and highlight showcases for national selectors would help ensure talent like Alhassan’s isn’t overlooked until they’re established.
Adamu Ibrahim Alhassan’s emergence sends a clear signal Nigerian midfielders are making their mark quietly—but profoundly across Europe. That momentum deserves to be encouraged and celebrated.
Did You Know?
- Adamu Ibrahim Alhassan occupies the defensive midfield slot, often shielding the backline while initiating transitions.
- He wears no. 6 at KF Shkëndija and played six of the first 10 league matches during the 2024–25 season.
- Before moving to North Macedonia, Alhassan featured for Turkey’s Menemenspor until July 2023, showcasing his readiness for European football.
- Shkëndija sit second in the league after 10 games, boasting a defensive record bolstered by midfield shielding.
- Standing at 1.75 m, Alhassan blends height with agility, which helps his disciplined performance on the ball and in the tackle.
