The 25-year-old Nigerian forward is taking the same path great players like Mo Salah have followed in the past.
Nigerian forward Philip Otele has joined Swiss Super League club FC Basel on loan from UAE Pro League side Al Wahda to follow African Legend Mo Sallah.
Salah joined Basel in 2012 and played a total of 95 games, scoring a total of 21 goals.
The Egyptian joined Chelsea in 2014 for a reported fee of £11 million but lack of playing time made Chelsea loan him out.
Philip follows in Mo Salah’s footsteps
Philip Otele’s move to the Swiss club can be likened to Mo Salah’s move to Basel from Egyptian club Al-Mokawloon in 2012.
Salah found rhythm at Basel and impressed many European giants, with Chelsea signing the Egyptian winger after he scored three goals against the Blues, including one in the Champions League.
25-year-old Philip Otele, who made 13 appearances for Al Wahda without scoring or provide an assist can revive his career at Basel, following Salah’s footstepss.
The Nigerian forward’s deal includes an option for FC Basel to sign him permanently for €3 million at the end of the season.
What Philip said
Philip Otele expressed his excitement about joining FC Basel on the club’s official website.
“I am delighted that I was able to sign with FC Basel today. The club is internationally known for its successes and, both in the past and today, top players who have had world-class careers have played here.
“This is a great opportunity for me personally and I am very happy that I can join this club today. With my style of play, I try to give the team an unpredictable element in attack. I am fast and versatile in attack,” he said.
FC Basel sporting director Daniel Stucki also shared his enthusiasm about the signing.
“Philip Otele is a very explosive player who brings another interesting element to our offensive game with his physique. Thanks to his age, he has already gained a lot of experience and is a great alternative for us on the wing or in attack. We are very happy that this good opportunity has now presented itself and that we have been able to win him for FCB, He said.
Philip will be looking forward to make his debut when Basel travel to Cornaredo Stadium for a clash against Lugano on Sunday.