17th July, 2013
Barely few months after making his debut in the GLO Nigeria Premier League with Dolphins FC of Port Harcourt, midfield prodigy, Tope Jaiyeole is on the verge of joining Turkish giant, Fenerbahche. In this interview with Bamidele Olowosagba, the former Yobo football academy player talks about his experience in the domestic league, his imminent move to the Turkish league and his future dreams.
How would you rate the challenges of playing in the Nigerian top flight league?
As a young lad playing in the grassroots a couple of months ago, it has been tough playing among the big players in the league. But my experiences of playing in the big matches at the grassroots I have helped me to cope with the pressure and put up good performances in the few matches I have played so far.
How did you feel in your first match for Dolphins?
It was a televised match against Gombe United. I was a bit jittery when the match started but as the match continued I was able to compose myself and finished the match on a high. Since then I have played against Kwara United and Akwa United. I was also part of the team that went to play Rangers but I was featured in the match.
How was your experience in Turkey?
It was good in Turkey and I am still playing to God for me to go back there soon and secure the deal.
Tell us about your trial in Turkey?
Actually, I was in Turkey to undergo a 2 weeks trial with Fenerbahche and I played in a couple of matches with the first team. After the matches, the coaches said I did great and commented on my power play.
How soon are you going to join your new team ahead of the new season?
Well, I still have to go back to Turkey in a couple of weeks to finalise the deal. And I hope we will be able to perfect every details of the deal before the new season starts.
What informed your decision to go to try out your skills in Turkey?
It is because their style of play favours my football. I have been following the Turkish league for sometime and I know they play free flowing football and vey tactical in their approach. Also, seeing the likes of Emmanuel Emenike, Joseph Yobo and Kalu Uche playing in the Turkish league also motivated me to try my luck out there. Yobo has always been my mentor.
Your present club, Dolphins, are they aware of your imminent move?
Yes they are aware because my manager has already informed our General Manager and the head coach that Fenebahche are interested in me.
After Turkey what is next for you?
I hope my move to Turkey would enebale me to get offers in the EPL or Spanish league so that I would be able to play among the best in the world and get an invitation to represent Nigeria. My dream is to play for the national team someday.