Liberia International Midfielder Divine Teah has penned his first professional contract with Swedish Pro League side Hammarby.
The teenager signed for Hammarby, and is about to play in the top flight of Swedish football, after turning 18 years old.
The promising talent had been training with the club for months following an agreement with his local club, Nimba FC, however, the contract could not be signed until Teah turns 18.
A statement from Hammarby said, “Today Divine Teah turned 18 and celebrates by signing an A-team contract with Hammarby, in agreement with Teah’s Liberian club Nimba FC. The midfielder’s contract extends over four years. A warm welcome to the Bay!”
Following his signing, Teah, who has played in over three games for the national team of Liberia, expressed his happiness with the deal and his excitement to start playing.
He said he was overwhelmed with reactions from the Hammarby fans since his transfer has been announced and cannot wait to make them happy.
“I am sure we will create some beautiful history together and continue to make the Tele2 Arena a fortress! Thanks to everyone for the well-wishes and love; it’s time now to get going with the team and start this new chapter with this amazing Club with the best supporters! Forza Bajen,” he announced.
Nimba FC, Teah’s previous club wished him all the best as he serves as their ambassador in Europe.
Nimba FC was represented at the signing ceremony by its Chief Administrator Ike Moore, who was happy with the deal and believed that Teah will soon be fans’ favorite in Sweden.
Moore shared his excitement about witnessing Teah’s journey from their club to signing with Hammarby on his 18th birthday.
Italian Sportswriter Fabrizio Romano mentioned in a Facebook post in 2023 that several European teams, including Gent, AC Milan, Sporting Lisbon, and Bayer Leverkusen, are interested in the talented Liberian midfielder.
Teah was also included in The Guardian’s top 60 talents of the Next Generation for 2023.
The young player has shown promise, demonstrated by him scoring a consolation goal for Liberia against Ghana in a friendly match.
Teah has garnered attention from scouts worldwide and has been recognized as a player with great potential for the future.
The Guardian newspaper named Teah, who came through the youth system of the Massa Football Academy in Liberia, among 60 players worldwide set to make an impact in football.
The 17-year-old midfielder signed a pre-contract agreement with Swedish club Hammarby FC, awaiting his 18th birthday celebration to make the move permanent.
Teah also has experience playing for the National Soccer team of Liberia, Lone Star, and has received optimistic support from Liberian football fans on social media.
