German 2. Bundesliga side Karlsruher SC have confirmed the signing of Nigerian defender Kimberly Ezekwem as the club strengthens its squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 25-year-old left-back joins from SC Freiburg and will initially feature for Karlsruher SC’s U23 team as he continues his recovery from a lengthy injury layoff. The club hopes regular competitive action will help him regain full fitness before challenging for a place in the senior squad.
Ezekwem arrives after a difficult spell at Freiburg, where injury restricted him to just one appearance during his final campaign. Earlier in his career, he enjoyed a productive period with Freiburg’s reserve side, helping the team earn promotion to Germany’s 3. Liga during the 2020/21 season. He also contributed 14 assists in that successful campaign, underlining his attacking qualities from full-back.
The Nigerian defender began his football journey in Bayern Munich’s academy, where he spent seven years before moving to Freiburg in 2018. His progress later earned him a Bundesliga debut against RB Leipzig, while he also gained experience during a loan spell at SC Paderborn in the 2023/24 season.
That loan was interrupted after illness limited him to seven appearances, forcing him into another extended absence from competitive football.
Karlsruher SC academy sporting director Thomas Konrad believes the club has secured an experienced player capable of making a strong impact once fully fit.
“With Kimberly, we are gaining a player who already possesses valuable experience at the highest level. He has impressively demonstrated his qualities in the Bundesliga, the 2. Bundesliga, and over a full season in the 3. Liga, and brings an exceptional overall package. In recent years, Kimberly had to endure a long and difficult period off the pitch. We are all the more delighted that he consciously chose to join KSC. We are convinced that Kimberly, with his quality and personality, is a great asset to our club.”
Professional football director Timon Pauls also explained the club’s long-term approach.
“With our U23 team, we want to gradually reintroduce Kimberly to professional football after his long break, with the necessary patience and the right conditions. Our scouting department has had him on their radar for some time, as we see interesting potential in him. We will closely monitor and follow his development.”
The defender is determined to work his way back to top condition before pushing for senior football.
”My goal is first to integrate into the team and get back to top form. Once that’s achieved, I want to recommend myself for the professional team.”
Ezekwem’s move to Karlsruher SC offers the Nigerian defender a valuable opportunity to restart his career after a challenging spell on the sidelines. With the club committed to easing him back through the U23 team, the 25-year-old will now focus on regaining full fitness and proving he deserves another chance at senior professional football.
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