West Bromwich Albion have confirmed that Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi will leave the club at the end of his contract this summer.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, reveals that the 31-year-old’s six-year tenure at The Hawthorns will come to a close following the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season.
Ajayi, who joined West Brom from Rotherham United in the summer of 2019, was an instrumental figure in the club’s promotion to the Premier League. Over the course of his time at Albion, the centre-back has made 177 appearances, with 147 of those coming as a starter.
His contributions in both defence and attack were crucial during some key moments of the club’s campaigns.
A statement from the club highlighted Ajayi’s valuable impact during his years at West Brom, with the player not only providing steady defensive performances but also scoring vital goals.
“The Nigerian international scored 13 goals during his six seasons at Albion, including notable Premier League strikes against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool during the 2020/21 season, as well as a dramatic late winner against Peterborough United in the Championship in August 2021,” the statement read.
Ajayi’s performances on the pitch earned him recognition both domestically and internationally. In addition to his club achievements, he has represented Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up. His experience on the international stage further underlined his stature as an accomplished defender.
However, his final season at West Brom has been marred by injury. After suffering a hamstring issue in a match against Cardiff City on October 26, 2024, Ajayi has been sidelined for much of the current campaign.
His lack of appearances this season—only 15 matches in the Championship—has further contributed to the club’s decision not to renew his contract.
Despite the setbacks, West Bromwich Albion will undoubtedly remember Ajayi for his contributions during a crucial period in the club’s history, including their promotion back to the Premier League.
As he prepares to leave the club, the Nigerian defender’s time at The Hawthorns will be marked by his resilience and commitment over the past six years.
Ajayi’s departure signals the end of an era for West Brom, as the club now looks to the future. The Nigerian will be remembered as a key figure in their efforts to return to the top flight, and his performances on the field will continue to be fondly recalled by fans of the club.
