Babatunde Akomolede Secures Four-Year Deal With Anderlecht FC

Babatunde Akomolede has signed a four year contract with Belgian side Anderlecht FC, marking a major step forward in his young career.

The talented left-back first drew attention at the Jagaban Cup, where he represented Broad City FC with composure and flair. His standout performances, particularly his extraordinary throw-ins, have earned him comparisons with former Republic of Ireland international Rory Delap famous for his long, accurate throws that often disrupted defences and created scoring opportunities.

Beyond his set-piece speciality, Akomolede has impressed with his defensive strength, calmness under pressure, and eye for assists. His throw-ins have repeatedly proved decisive, catching opponents off guard and leading directly to goals.

At Anderlecht, the teenager is expected to add a unique dimension to the team. His ability to launch precise, powerful throws will be an asset in set-piece situations, while his defensive qualities and composure promise to bolster the squad’s back line.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Akomolede is determined to make his mark. With hard work and focus, he has the potential to become an influential figure at the Belgian giants. His trademark throw-ins, in particular, could develop into a valuable tactical weapon.

The move also reflects the growing recognition of Nigerian talent in European football. Akomolede’s journey stands as inspiration for young players back home, showing that commitment and perseverance can turn ambition into reality.The transfer was finalised through the efforts of FIFA agents Cem Sagar and Dan Smejkal.

Editorial

We regard Akomolede’s signing as more than just a transfer it is a story of talent meeting opportunity. His rise from grassroots football in Lagos to Anderlecht’s professional setup demonstrates the value of youth tournaments such as the Jagaban Cup, which are quietly becoming pipelines for global football talent.

We believe that while his long throw-ins have earned him attention, what matters now is how he evolves beyond that trademark. Football history is filled with players known for a single skill, but only those who grow into well-rounded professionals sustain careers at the highest level. Anderlecht is a club with a tradition of developing talent, and Akomolede will have the chance to refine his positional play, decision-making, and tactical discipline.

We also see this move as validation for Nigerian academies and scouts. Each successful export reinforces the message that Nigeria’s football ecosystem is rich with ability, waiting only for structure and opportunity. The challenge for Akomolede will be to adapt quickly to European football’s pace and demands, proving he can contribute consistently beyond his throw-ins.

We hold fast to the view that this is not the end of a journey but its beginning. If Akomolede embraces the rigour, discipline, and expectations of Anderlecht, he could turn raw potential into a professional legacy. His move symbolises the direction Nigerian football must continue to take developing local gems into international stars.

Did You Know?

1. Anderlecht’s youth system has produced world-class players including Vincent Kompany, Romelu Lukaku, and Youri Tielemans.
2. Rory Delap, to whom Akomolede has been compared, once recorded throw-ins reaching over 40 metres during his Stoke City days.
3. The Jagaban Cup, where Akomolede first shone, has quickly become a scouting hub for clubs across Europe, particularly in Belgium and Scandinavia.
4. Long throw-ins are often treated like corner kicks in modern football, with research showing they create nearly as many goal-scoring opportunities.
5. Anderlecht have been steadily investing in African players for decades, with Nigerian stars like Celestine Babayaro and Chinedu Obasi among those who previously wore the club’s colours.