Former Al Ahly forward Junior Ajayi joins Alsancak FC on free transfer

Former Al Ahly forward Junior Ajayi has embarked on a new chapter in his football career after joining North Cyprus outfit Alsancak FC on a free transfer.

The Nigerian attacker, who enjoyed a successful spell with the Egyptian giants, is set to continue his career in Northern Cyprus as he seeks a fresh opportunity after years of playing at a higher level of the game.

Alsancak FC announced the signing of Ajayi, who rose to prominence during his time at Al Ahly, where he became a familiar figure among supporters through his performances in domestic and continental competitions.

His move to Northern Cyprus represents a significant change in the direction of his career, with the forward now preparing to compete in a league outside the mainstream professional football structures.

Ajayi’s arrival could also have implications for the future of former Pyramids FC forward Ramadan Sobhi, who has reportedly considered the possibility of playing for a club in the same region following his four-year suspension for a doping violation.

Former Al Ahly player Sherif Hazem, who played alongside Sobhi, previously indicated that the winger was considering a move to one of the clubs in Northern Cyprus as he assesses his options following the suspension imposed by the relevant authorities.

Sobhi’s situation has attracted considerable attention since the suspension effectively ruled him out of professional football for the duration of the ban. Pyramids FC subsequently terminated his contract, leaving the player to consider his next steps.

Speaking during his first television appearance after the suspension on MBC Egypt, Sobhi said he had yet to make a final decision about his future but promised to announce his plans once everything had been settled.

Ajayi’s move to Alsancak FC could provide Sobhi with an example of a former Egyptian football star pursuing opportunities in Northern Cyprus. Their previous connections within Egyptian football could also make the prospect of playing in the same region more appealing to the former Pyramids attacker.

However, there is no confirmation that Sobhi is preparing to join Ajayi, and his future plans remain uncertain.

The football status of Northern Cyprus also requires clarification. The region operates its own football structures outside the mainstream FIFA-recognised system, and its competitions are not equivalent to leagues affiliated with FIFA member associations. The implications of playing there for a suspended player would depend on the applicable disciplinary regulations and the terms of the ban.

For Ajayi, the move offers an opportunity to continue playing football in a new environment. For Sobhi, meanwhile, any decision to follow a similar route would require careful consideration of the restrictions attached to his suspension and the rules governing his eligibility to play.

While Ajayi has already taken the step of joining Alsancak FC, whether Sobhi will pursue a similar opportunity remains to be seen.