Mohamed Ali Bajaber: A Star Ascends in Kenyan Football

• Mohamed Ali Bajaber is a Nairobi City Stars winger
• Bajaber has trialled with FC Midtjylland, a Champions League club
• The 20-year-old ambitious Kenyan footballer has his eyes on the big stage

In the bustling heart of Nairobi, football fans have bestowed the name Mohamed Ali Bajaber with reverence. A mere 20-year-old, this prodigious talent has become a key player for Nairobi City Stars, gracefully manoeuvring past defenders and weaving a tapestry of magic on the football field.

Bajaber, donning the creative number 10, with the adaptability to excel as a number 8, made his FKF Premier League debut on May 15, 2022, in Ruaraka.

In a commendable showdown, Nairobi City Stars held champions Tusker FC to a persistent 0-0 draw.

Building on this promising initiation, Bajaber earned his first start against AFC Leopards in Thika on June 6, 2022, and made headlines after notching his maiden goal against Wazito FC on March 16, 2023.

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His football journey carries the weight of a family legacy, drawing inspiration from his father, Omar Ali Bajaber, a 1979 Football Kenyan League luminary with coastal-based Black Panthers.

Bajaber's most recent feat, a dazzling goal against Kariobangi Sharks on November 25, 2023, at the Kasarani Annex, Nairobi, not only showcased his goal-scoring prowess but also underscored his capacity to influence his team's triumphs significantly. The match culminated in a 3-1 victory for City Stars, with Bajaber's fine opener setting the tone for success.

In August 2021, the young footballer found himself on the brink of an extraordinary opportunity – a trial with Denmark's FC Midtjylland, affectionately known as "Ulvene" or "The Wolves." Although the overseas venture didn't materialize into a long-term stint, it marked a pivotal juncture in Bajaber's career, offering him invaluable insights into global football.

In an exclusive interview with Sports Brief, Bajaber delved into the story of his football expedition, shedding light on a budding star's challenges, triumphs, and ambitions.

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Genesis: Starfield Sports and Nairobi City Stars

Bajaber's football roots trace back to his formative years at the IGCSE school football at Premier Academy in Nairobi. Here, he crossed paths with Veer Dave, then the head coach of football. Dave later founded Starfield Sports, an academy that would script a pivotal chapter in Bajaber's developmental saga.

"I developed well there and got a chance at FC Midtjylland for a 3-week trial. It didn’t work out as planned, so I returned to Kenya and had a trial with Nairobi City Stars two months later, where I ended up signing," Bajaber narrates.

The Danish interlude, albeit brief, left an unforgettable impression on the young player.

Undeterred by the challenges abroad, Bajaber returned to Kenya, where destiny had charted another course. Two months after his European sojourn, Bajaber underwent trials with Nairobi City Stars. This time, stars aligned in his favour, leading to signing a professional contract with the club – a monumental leap in his rapidly growing career.

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A Glimpse into the Future

Having garnered call-ups and trials with Kenya's Under-20 (Rising Stars) and Under-23 (Emerging Stars) national football teams, Bajaber has already carved a niche for himself in the competitive arena of Kenyan football.

When quizzed about his future aspirations, the young football maestro shared ambitions resonant with many in his position.

"Any Kenyan player’s ambition is to play in Europe one day. I am no different. However, at this moment, I am taking one game at a time and trying my best to ensure the team gets the 3 points at the end of the day," said Bajaber, stressing the significance of a measured and focused approach.

Most Memorable Goal and Inspirational Words

A defining moment came for Bajaber in March this year when he secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Muhoroni Youth with a last-minute goal.

“The goal against Muhoroni last season was a memorable one. Scoring in the game's last minutes is a special moment for any player, let alone being your first professional goal,” reminisced Bajaber.

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This goal showcased his technical prowess and affirmed his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are high.

As a beacon for aspiring Kenyan footballers, Bajaber recognizes young talents' dreams and aspirations. When asked about the advice he would offer to those aspiring to make a name for themselves, his grounded response resonates with motivational wisdom.

“I don’t want to be that guy and just say, ‘work hard and stay focused,’ but it does take a lot of hard work and diligence. So I would tell them to keep trying no matter how many times you get knocked down,” urged Bajaber, stressing the importance of perseverance despite the inevitable setbacks.

Beyond the Pitch

While Bajaber's life revolves around the intricacies of football, he acknowledges the importance of interests beyond the game.

“I enjoy watching football matches and analyzing them, which I think every aspiring footballer should do because it makes you a more intelligent player and more tactically aware of what’s happening on the pitch. I also enjoy playing video games where you are the Head coach of your football team,” shares Bajaber.

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In conclusion, Bajaber's narrative is one of resolve, passion, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. His journey reflects the challenges and triumphs that define the trajectory of a young football luminary.