By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leonean International, Abdulai Juma Bah, who made history to become the first Sierra Leoneans to play and debut in the Spanish Laliga has explained his journey to the Spain top flight league.
18-year old Abdulai Juma Bah name was confirmed in La Liga debut for his side Real Valladolid in their goalless draw against Real Sociedard
Less than a month since arriving in Spain, Juma joined the likes of Kei Kamara who last played for Norwich City in the English Premier League, and Augustus Kargbo in the Italian Serie A for FC Crotone, now is Abdulai Juma Bah to become the third Sierra Leonean player to feature in one of Europe’s top 6 leagues.
His strong impression at Real Valladolid has been rewarded since joining less than a month ago.
It could be recalled that Real Valladolid announced the signing of Juma Bah sometime in August this year who was part of the Leone Stars senior team. Bah joined the Spanish side from AIK Freetong.
Coming from AIK Freetong in Sierra Leone. Abdulai Juma Bah 18 is beginning to build on his confidence since his arrival at the purple and white club a month ago. Unbelievable how everything has gone so fast for the youngster.
“In my country, I would wake up at four in the morning to help my father, Abdul Karim, who is a baker, gather firewood for the oven. I started playing barefoot on the street with my friends and then on dirt fields until I reached the Premier League of my country. Real Valladolid took notice of me and signed me.”
Back where Juma Bah started it all on Nicole Street in the Congo Market neighbourhood of Freetown, everyone was amazed.
“Especially my mother, Umu. They are very happy for me, they can’t believe it, and they pray every day that everything goes well”.
The 18-year old Sierra Leonean international defender believes the process is simply to continue as he has already started. “I have humility and hard work, and I am clear that I want to repay the fans’ affection and the coach’s trust.”
