A dream nearly a decade in the making has finally come true. Elisha Sowunmi, the talented Nigerian-born forward who joined the West Ham United Academy at the age of just 9, has officially signed his first professional contract with the club.
Nicknamed “Sowunm” by fans and teammates alike, the 17-year-old has become one of the Academy’s brightest rising stars.
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From his early days at Chadwell Heath to lighting up the U18 Premier League with hat-tricks and match-winning performances, Sowunmi’s journey is the epitome of West Ham’s Academy of Football legacy.
“This is everything I’ve worked for,” said an emotional Sowunmi. “West Ham has been my home for most of my life. To now call myself a professional here… it means the world.”
This season, Sowunmi notched up 11 goals in all competitions, including standout performances against Reading and league leaders Aston Villa—cementing his status as a goal machine and creative force up front.
Coaches have lauded his versatility, vision, and leadership on and off the pitch.
Academy Coach Lauris Coggin: “Elisha is a perfect reflection of what this Academy is all about—talent, commitment, and humility. He’s got the tools to go far.”
Sowunmi now follows in the footsteps of legendary West Ham graduates like Mark Noble, Declan Rice, and Ben Johnson, stepping up from youth prospect to professional athlete.
Hammers fans, take note—this is just the beginning for Sowunmi.
With eyes on a senior team debut and a promising future ahead, the boy who grew up wearing claret and blue is ready to make his mark on the Premier League stage.
