Belgian club Gent release Nigerian prospect Umar Abubakar despite 21-goal season

By Dayo Awoniyi

Belgian top-flight side KAA Gent have opted not to offer a permanent contract to Nigerian striker Umar Abubakar, despite his prolific form for their B team during the 2024/25 season.

Abubakar, 19, scored an impressive 21 goals in 27 appearances while on loan from Nigerian club Footwork FC Abuja.

However, local outlet Het Nieuwsblad reports that Gent have chosen not to trigger the purchase option in his loan deal.

The striker was part of Nigeria’s preliminary squad for the 2023 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but did not make the final list for the tournament.

Despite his goal-scoring exploits, Gent reportedly believes that Abubakar does not fit into their long-term first-team plans.

The club is instead prioritizing the promotion of homegrown talents, especially as their developmental squad prepares to compete in the Challenger Pro League next season.

Abubakar is now expected to return to Footwork FC Abuja, though his performances in Belgium could attract interest from other European clubs during the summer transfer window.