Former Nigeria U-20 defender Igoh Ogbu is eagerly anticipating the new season, choosing to ignore transfer speculation as he reunites with his Slavia Prague teammates.
Ogbu, who transferred from Norwegian side Lillestrøm to Slavia Prague in January 2023, has been a standout performer for the Czech team.
The defender, who was included in the provisional Super Eagles squad list for the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in November 2023, has established himself as one of the top Nigerian players abroad over the past two seasons.
Igho Ogbu brooking no distractions, wants more European experience
Despite interest from several clubs, Igoh Ogbu remains dedicated to Slavia Prague and the upcoming season. Speaking to Afrik-Foot.com, he expressed his commitment to his current team.
Last season, Slavia Prague finished second, just two points behind arch-rivals Sparta Prague, with 72 points from 30 games, but secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League, where they will enter the competition from the third qualifying round.
Ogbu, 24, emphasized his focus on preparing for the new season and winning the title. He also highlighted the significance of the Champions League qualifiers.
“To be honest with you, I know some clubs have been looking at me but that is not what I am thinking about at this important time,” he said.
“Last season was a close one in the title race and we believe we can get the title. That is what we talk about all day since we resumed preseason.
“It is good when you get mentioned with clubs but it can also be a distraction if you allow it to be. For me, I am focused on Slavia and what we have in front of us.”
Rather than a transfer, the 24-year-old is keen to translate his strong performances in the Europa League last season to the Champions League in the coming campaign.
“We will be playing in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers and we have hopes of playing in the competition. I enjoyed the experience in the Europa League last time out and I want the same again.
“Hopefully, this time around, we will go farther than we did in the previous edition and also try to win the league title. Those are the things I am focused on at the moment”.
Last season, Igoh Ogbu, who was part of the Nigeria U20 team at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Poland in 2019, made 25 appearances for Slavia Prague.
