Highly-rated Nigerian striker Umar Abubakar has officially signed a five-year contract with FC Famalicão of Portugal’s Primeira Liga, marking a major step forward in his rapidly growing career.
The 19-year-old joins the Portuguese top-flight side from the youth team of Belgian club KAA Gent, where he enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 season.
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Abubakar caught widespread attention after finishing as the top scorer in the Belgian National Division 1 with 21 goals in 27 matches, leading Gent’s U21 side and earning the Youth Player of the Season award.
His pace, power, and instinct in front of goal made him one of the most talked-about young strikers in Belgium’s youth system.
Born in Kano State, Nigeria, Abubakar developed his early football at Footwork FC Abuja, a grassroots club known for producing raw attacking talent.
He has also been part of the Flying Eagles setup, receiving call-ups to Nigeria’s U20 national team camp and further raising his international profile.
His move to Famalicão is seen as a strategic step for both club and player, with the Portuguese side investing in long-term potential while providing Abubakar with the opportunity to grow in a competitive league known for nurturing young talent.
In his first interview as a Famalicão player, Abubakar expressed his excitement:
“I am very happy to have signed with Futebol Clube de Famalicão. I know it’s a great team with talented players, many of whom are young, and guided by a strong coaching staff. I’m ready to give everything to help the team and grow as a player.”
Abubakar’s five-year deal runs until June 2030, and he is expected to join up with the squad ahead of the 2025/26 Primeira Liga season, where he will look to make an immediate impact.
