Nigerian midfielder Auwal Ibrahim has completed a major career move by signing a five-year contract with Tunisian top-flight club Étoile Sportive du Sahel.
The transfer, confirmed by the club on Wednesday, follows the player’s standout performances at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, where he played a key role in Nigeria’s third-place finish.
The 19-year-old central midfielder was one of the breakout stars of the tournament, widely praised for his passing range, tactical discipline, and ability to control the tempo of games. His displays caught the eye of scouts across the continent, with Étoile du Sahel moving quickly to secure his signature ahead of other suitors from Europe and North Africa.
Ibrahim’s move to the Tunisian giants marks a significant milestone in his young career. Étoile du Sahel, one of the most successful and historic clubs in Africa, are known for their strong youth development structure and regular participation in CAF interclub competitions. The club has won multiple domestic titles and continental trophies, including the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.
Currently with the Flying Eagles at the WAFU B U-20 Championship in Ghana, Ibrahim is expected to link up with his new club once Nigeria’s campaign concludes. Sources close to the team say Étoile view the midfielder as a long-term investment and are planning to integrate him into the senior squad immediately ahead of the new Tunisian Ligue 1 season.
The club’s technical director reportedly described Ibrahim as “a modern midfielder with exceptional vision and maturity beyond his age,” while also hinting at plans to develop him into a future leader within the squad.
Ibrahim began his youth career with Mahanaim FC in Kaduna, a club known for producing technically gifted players, and has steadily risen through the ranks of Nigeria’s youth system. His move to Tunisia adds to the growing list of Flying Eagles players making the leap into professional football in top African and European leagues.
The transfer is not only a major step forward for Ibrahim but also another validation of the Flying Eagles’ developmental success, as the team continues to serve as a springboard for some of Nigeria’s most promising football talents.
With Étoile du Sahel competing on multiple fronts this season — including the CAF Confederation Cup and domestic league — Ibrahim is expected to gain valuable experience, and fans will be eager to see how the young Nigerian adapts to the demands of North African football.