Joel Ndala says Sergej Jakirovic was a key reason for opting to join Hull City in a bid to get his career back on track after a difficult 12 months.
The 19-year-old winger arrived on loan from Manchester City on Tuesday after the Tigers agreed a deal with Manchester City to see the teenager spend the campaign at the MKM Stadium. He made his debut a few hours later in the 2-1 win over Sunderland with an eye-catching cameo in which he hit the post.
Even Erling Haaland gave his seal of approval to his move on social media after the move was confirmed, with the Tigers given approval by the EFL under the terms of their transfer restrictions.
It’s been a tough year for the England youth international. Twelve months ago, he joined Dutch giants PSV on loan, with the Eindhoven side having the option to buy him, which they rejected, and he returned to the Etihad before heading off to Nottingham Forest.
After linking up with Forest’s academy, Ndala struggled to make an impact and, like PSV, the Premier League outfit opted against making his move to the City Ground permanent. Now he’s at City in a bid to get what was a promising career back on track.
“I feel very privileged to come to a club like this. I’m really excited and happy to join the club,” the winger said. “The manager said he’s watched me since I was playing in the Youth Champions League, and he really showed me that he wanted me to be here.
“I’m a direct, skilful winger; I like to take players on, dribble, create chances and score goals. It’s up to me to take this opportunity and run with it. I want to show people what I can bring to the team.
“The Championship is a good level and I’ll take the challenge head-on. I’m going to give it my all and try to help the team out in every way I can. I’m ready to show the fans what I can do.”
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