The Nigerian striker Akinyemi Adeleke has signed a one-year contract extension with an option for an additional year with Finnish Veikkausliiga club Tampereen Ilves.
Akinyemi joined Tampereen Ilves in 2024 from Czech club MFK Karviná, where he made a strong impact, scoring 11 goals in 46 appearances.
After signing with Tampereen Ilves for the remainder of the 2024 season, Akinyemi quickly became a key player for the Finnish club, scoring three crucial goals.
His outstanding performances during his short stint at Tampereen Ilves did not go unnoticed. His top-level displays earned him a contract extension with the club.
In an exclusive interview with Kick Off Nigeria, the 26-year-old Nigerian striker revealed his reasons for returning to Tampereen Ilves and his ambitions for his second spell at the club.
“Regardless of the offers I had, I ultimately decided to extend my contract with Tampereen Ilves because it has always been my dream to play in the Europa League.”
“Tampereen Ilves will be playing in the Europa League qualifiers next season, and I want to help the team while fulfilling my dream.”
“I believe I can still do more for the club—score goals and help Tampereen Ilves compete for the Veikkausliiga title next season.”
“I received offers from two Finnish clubs, KuPS and HJK, as well as from Ukrainian club FC LNZ Cherkasy, but I chose to return to Tampereen Ilves to play in the Europa League and help the club fight for domestic glory.”
During his short spell with Tampereen Ilves in 2024, Akinyemi was voted Veikkausliiga Player of the Month in September. The club finished as runners-up in the 2024/2025 season.
The prolific Nigerian striker has previously played for clubs including KF Skënderbeu Korçë, KF Trepça ’89, FK Ventspils, IK Start, HamKam, and KF Laçi.
