West Bromwich Albion and Super Eagles defender, Semi Ibidapo Ajayi, is preparing to bring his chapter at The Hawthorns to a close after a lengthy stint at the club.
The 31-year-old Nigerian international, who has been a mainstay in the team over the years, has featured just 14 times this season, with hamstring issues significantly limiting his availability.
With West Brom trailing the Championship play-off spots by six points and only two games left in the season, promotion looks unlikely.
According to journalist Darren Witcoop, Ajayi is expected to depart the club during the summer transfer window.
Despite his injury troubles, Ajayi’s return to fitness was met with optimism by his manager.
“A strange situation” – West Bromwich Albion boss delighted about Ajayi’s return following Super Eagles ordeal in Libya.
He also earned praise for stepping up as he edged closer to full recovery from his hamstring problems.
Ajayi joined West Brom nearly six years ago and has since amassed 176 appearances for the Baggies.
In 2022, the club handed him a three-year contract extension following his key role in their promotion to the Premier League in 2021.
However, with just two months remaining on that deal and no talks of a renewal, his departure seems imminent.
What’s Next for Semi Ajayi?
As many Nigerians would say, “when one door closes, another opens.” The next step in Ajayi’s journey could take several directions.
A return to the Premier League might be a possibility, particularly with newly promoted sides like Leeds United and Burnley potentially seeking to bolster their defensive options.
Though Ajayi might not be an immediate starter, his wealth of experience and physical presence could make him an appealing addition.
His aerial prowess and ability to read the game are among his strongest assets.
There’s also the potential for a move beyond England’s shores. The Turkish Super Lig stands out as a viable destination for the Nigerian centre-back.
The league has been a popular landing spot for many Nigerian players in recent years, including Kenneth Omeruo, Victor Osimhen, Henry Onyekuru, Oghenekaro Etebo, Paul Onuachu, and Fisayo Ayodele-Bashiru.
Other European leagues such as France’s Ligue 1 or Germany’s Bundesliga could offer fresh challenges, while the Saudi Pro League presents a financially rewarding alternative.
Having spent the bulk of his professional career in the English second tier, remaining in the Championship wouldn’t be out of the question.
With his knowledge of the league, clubs like Southampton, Ipswich Town, and Leicester City—teams eager for promotion—may find him a perfect fit.
No matter where he heads next, Ajayi brings a history of determination and professionalism. From his early days at Charlton Athletic and Arsenal’s academy to spells at Cardiff City, AFC Wimbledon, Rotherham United, and West Brom, he’s carved a path marked by consistency and perseverance.
Though his West Brom journey may be nearing its end, Ajayi’s story continues. At 31, he still has plenty to offer on the pitch, and the decisions he makes in the coming months could be vital, not only for club success but also for his aspirations with the Super Eagles, as Nigeria eyes qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
