“You might find another baller signing for Birmingham City” – Osayi-Samuel

New Birmingham City signing, Bright Osayi-Samuel, has expressed gratitude to his new club after they donated jerseys to support his grassroots football initiative in Edo State, Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles defender, who recently penned a three-year deal with the Championship side, was spotted in his hometown where he attended the final of the second edition of the Bright Osayi-Samuel U-13 Football Tournament.

The competition was organised through his academy and foundation to nurture young football talent.

The encounter saw Okuta FC and Samco City FC go head-to-head as they battled for victory. The tournament is part of Osayi-Samuel’s efforts to give back to the community that helped raise him.

Following this, Birmingham City, through their foundation, donated jerseys to Osayi-Samuel for distribution to the young players in his academy.

“I just want to say I am very appreciative to the club — Birmingham City,” Osayi-Samuel said in a video shared on social media.
“It’s a big gesture. Football is a global sport, and I want to represent where I come from. For me to represent, a Birmingham T-shirt is a start.

“You never know, we might find another baller that ends up signing for Birmingham City — just by wearing the shirt. I’m very sure all the kids will be very happy, and once again, I want to say a very big thank you to the club.”

“You never know, we might find another baller!”

Thanks to @BCFC_Foundation, @Bright_097 will be recruiting new Blues fans in Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/W5McYBZqnB

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) July 5, 2025

Osayi-Samuel’s foundation has been active in promoting youth football across Edo State, with the defender using his platform and resources to provide mentorship and opportunities for underprivileged children.

Osayi-Samuel continues to inspire the next generation — both on and off the pitch—as he begins a new chapter at Birmingham.