Doncaster Keen to Retain Olowu Amid Contract Uncertainty

Doncaster Rovers manager Grant McCann has voiced the club’s intent to retain Joseph Olowu, the Nigerian-born centre-back and former Arsenal Hale End Academy product, whose contract is set to expire in the coming weeks. Olowu’s future has become a hot topic following a stellar season and his key role in Doncaster’s promotion to League One.

Olowu, born in Ibadan, Nigeria, has already committed to representing the Super Eagles internationally despite also being eligible for England. He previously held discussions with Nigerian Football Federation officials during the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.

After joining Doncaster Rovers in 2021, the 25 year old has grown into a fan favourite and was named Player of the Year at the recent Star Football Awards. This season, he recorded three goals and two assists before a season-ending injury ruled him out of the final ten league matches.

Speaking to the Doncaster Free Press, McCann praised Olowu’s professionalism and influence, stating, “He’s had a tremendous season… His attitude, how he works, trains and goes about his business every day is a testament to him. We’d love him to sign a new contract!”

Olowu, who spent 13 years at Arsenal and had loan spells at Cork City and Wealdstone, has featured in 144 games for Doncaster Rovers, scoring eight goals and providing five assists. His next move remains uncertain as the club pushes to secure his signature ahead of the new season.

Editorial

We see Joseph Olowu’s journey as a testament to resilience, growth, and the long road from youth prospect to senior level consistency. From being released by Arsenal after over a decade of development to anchoring Doncaster Rovers’ defence and leading them to promotion this is exactly the kind of story that defines modern football success.

And now, as his contract nears its end, the decision about his future carries greater significance. Doncaster Rovers, rightly, want to retain him. A player who combines technical education from a Premier League academy with gritty lower-league experience is rare. Olowu brings structure, calm, and leadership—qualities that are difficult to replace.

We believe his choice will reflect his ambition. Staying with Doncaster in League One could offer continuity and the chance to captain a young side up the English football ladder. But if a higher-tier club comes knocking, it would be hard to fault him for seizing that opportunity. Either way, the Super Eagles should continue to keep tabs Nigeria needs centre-backs who can handle responsibility and adversity.

Olowu’s best football may yet lie ahead. Whatever path he chooses, it should reward his patience, persistence, and hard-earned maturity. He’s proven he can be more than just a former academy talent—he can be the backbone of any team willing to trust him.

Did You Know?

1. Joseph Olowu was part of the Arsenal U18 side that reached the FA Youth Cup final in 2016.
2. He made his professional debut for Cork City during a loan spell in the 2020 League of Ireland season.
3. Olowu holds dual citizenship and is eligible to play for both Nigeria and England at senior level.
4. During his youth career at Arsenal, Olowu often trained with the first team under Arsène Wenger and later Unai Emery.
5. He once captained Arsenal’s U23 team in the Premier League 2, highlighting his leadership credentials early on.