BK Häcken have completed the signing of highly rated Ivorian winger Christ Wawa from Racing Club d’Abidjan, with the 18-year-old penning a five-year contract that will keep him at the Swedish club until 2030.
The transfer, finalised on Tuesday 12 August and announced through Häcken’s official website and social media channels, marks Wawa’s first move abroad.
The deal sees one of Ivory Coast’s most promising young talents take his next career step in the Allsvenskan, where he will join a side seeking to climb the table after a challenging start to the season.
Speaking to Häcken’s club media, Wawa expressed delight at the opportunity to play in Europe and vowed to make an immediate impact at the Bravida Arena.
“It’s a huge joy to be here. I’ve been waiting for this moment, and it feels like the perfect start to my adventure outside Africa. I’m here to perform,” he said.
Describing himself as “explosive, determined, and courageous,” Wawa highlighted his pace, dribbling and shooting ability as his strongest attributes.
He stressed his intention to contribute fully to the team’s ambitions, adding that he will give his all in every match.
Wawa’s move comes after weeks of transfer speculation, during which the Ivory Coast U20 international attracted interest from several clubs.
Italian Serie B side Como, French Ligue 1 outfit Brest, and Swedish rivals Hammarby were all linked with the winger, with Hammarby reportedly coming close to securing his signature before Häcken won the race.
The teenager’s decision to join Häcken represents a significant commitment, both in terms of the length of his contract and his readiness to adapt to the demands of European football.
With the club currently sitting 10th in the Swedish top flight, Wawa’s arrival is expected to inject pace and creativity into the attack as Häcken look to improve their form in the second half of the season.
Wawa’s development at Racing Club d’Abidjan earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting emerging players in Ivorian football.
His performances at youth level for the national team have further underlined his potential, and his new club believe he has the qualities to become a key figure in their long-term plans.
For Häcken, securing a player of Wawa’s calibre on a lengthy contract is seen as both an investment in the present and a step towards building for the future.
The club’s coaching staff will aim to integrate him quickly, giving him opportunities to adapt to the tactical demands of Swedish football while maintaining the attacking instincts that made him a sought-after prospect.
Wawa’s first appearance for Häcken is anticipated with keen interest, as supporters look forward to seeing how the young Ivorian will translate his dynamic style to the Allsvenskan.
With a mix of youthful energy and raw talent, his signing adds an intriguing dimension to Häcken’s squad as they push to climb the league standings in the coming months.