By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

In a significant move to boost football development in Nigeria and Africa, renowned international football intermediary, Tihomir Sloboda, has acquired a controlling interest in Warri-based club, Tellectual Football Club. This strategic investment aims to create new opportunities for talented African and Nigerian footballers by providing them with pathways to European football.

Sloboda has a well-established track record of facilitating the transfer of numerous Nigerian and African players to Eastern and Central European clubs. During the most recent transfer window, he successfully arranged the transfers of Ambrose Chidi Isaiah and Samson Olasupo to Serbian side FK Radnicki Sremska Mitrovica, further cementing his influence in the region.

With his fifty percent (50%)controlling interest in Tellectual FC, Sloboda is set to have a major impact on the club’s training programs, player scouting, and talent development. His involvement is expected to elevate the players' exposure to top European clubs, offering them new opportunities to advance their careers.

Speaking about the acquisition, Sloboda expressed his enthusiasm for the potential it brings. "This is an exciting opportunity. I’ve been highly impressed with the raw talent in the region, and now, having the chance to work closely with both players and coaches will allow me to help shape their development. With access to top-class training equipment and resources, we can significantly enhance their skills and techniques. This deal will not only benefit the players but also the coaches, as they will be exposed to world-class standards that can bring out the best in them,” Sloboda remarked.

When asked why he chose to become a partner and co-owner of Tellectual FC, Mr. Sloboda replied, "My decision comes from the deep love I have for Nigeria, the warm hospitality I experienced in Warri, and the abundance of football talent the country is blessed with."

By acquiring Tellectual FC, Sloboda's influence is poised to leave a lasting mark on Nigerian football, offering a new level of professionalism and international exposure to the club's players and coaching staff. His experience and expertise in player development and European football markets promise to be a transformative force for the club, opening doors for young talents to shine on the global stage.