The Sierra Leonean rising star, Juma Bah is set to join Manchester City as their new player as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on January 21st, 2025. This move ends fierce competition from top European clubs who wanted Bah on their team.

The 18-year-old centre-back, currently playing for Real Valladolid in La Liga, attracted interest from clubs like Inter Milan, Lens, and Fernabache, all eager to secure his signature.

Standing at an impressive 6ft 5in, Bah has made a significant impact in the La Liga this season, earning a regular starting position for Real Valladolid.

Breakthrough Season For Bah

Manchester City has been pursuing the teenager for a while, offering an attractive plan that includes signing him and sending him on loan for 18 months to continue his development. This strategic move seems to have won over the young defender, despite late interest from Premier League rivals Everton and Crystal Palace.

City’s persistence and detailed proposal appear to have tipped the scales in their favor, and Bah is expected to finalize his move to City.

As part of the plan for his development, Bah could be loaned to Ligue 1 side RC Lens. The two clubs share a strong working relationship, solidified during the transfer of Abdukodir Khusanov to ManchesterCity, a move that set a precedent for similar deals.

Bah’s move is viewed as a strategic investment in the future. The young defender has already attracted attention for his composure, tactical awareness, and ability to read the game, which make him a standout prospect among his peers.

While fans of Manchester City and Sierra Leone eagerly await the official announcement, the prospect of seeing Bah develop within the City Group’s ecosystem has already generated excitement. The potential loan to RC Lens would give him valuable first-team experience in a competitive European league, preparing him for the demands of top-flight football.

Juma Bah in action for Real Valladolid

Reactions of Sierra Leoneans

News of Juma Bah’s imminent move to Manchester City has sparked excitement and pride among Sierra Leoneans. Many have taken to social media to express their joy, calling it a monumental moment for the country’s football history. Fans believe Bah’s move to one of the world’s biggest clubs will inspire young players in Sierra Leone to dream big.

James Yaya Kanu, a Facebook user said, “When facing challenges, it can be inspiring to consider the journey of Juma Bah who has overcome significant obstacles to achieve stardom.”

News360 S L Blog, added, “The signing highlights the increasing recognition of Sierra Leonean talent on the International stage, and Juma Bah’s progression will undoubtedly inspire other young players from the region.”

IBSON, also lauded the centre-back saying, “Juma Bah went from playing in the 1st division of Sierra Leone in May 2024 to playing in La Liga for Rea Valladolid, now he’s set to sing for Manchester City. What a come up for the 2004 born.”

Buju said, “This shows that we have players that match European top flight leagues if only we have proper discipline. Congratulations Juma Bah.”

Bei Santigie T. Kamara remarked, “This move will give him greater opportunities for regular playing time, as competition at Manchester City is fierce. The City sporting directors have prioritized his development in a top-tier league.”

About Juma Bah

Born in 2004 in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Juma Bah spent his youth helping his parents in their bakery while honing his football skills on the streets. He was discovered by agent Chernor Musa Jalloh while playing for Giant Freetown Academy, leading to a signing with AIK Freetong in April 2021.

In 2022, Bah was loaned to Sierra Leone National Premier League side Freetonians SLIFA, where he spent two years gaining valuable experience. On August 26, 2024, Real Valladolid scout Pachu Martínez identified Bah’s potential, leading to a one-year loan deal with the Spanish club. Initially assigned to the reserves in Segunda Federación, Bah quickly made an impact.

On September 21, 2024, Bah made history as the first Sierra Leonean to play in La Liga, starting in a 0–0 draw against Real Sociedad. This milestone marked the beginning of his rise in European football and further highlighted his immense potential.