FC Utrecht have completed the signing of highly-rated youngster Emmanuel Chigozie Owen from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, with the Eredivisie club securing the 19-year-old on a long-term deal.
The promising forward has signed a contract that runs until the summer of 2030. As part of the agreement, Bayer Leverkusen have retained a buy-back clause, giving the German club the option to re-sign the player should he flourish in the Netherlands.
Chigozie Owen began his youth career at Hoffenheim before making the switch to Bayer Leverkusen in 2024. During his time at the club, he established himself as one of Leverkusen’s standout U-19 talents, featuring prominently in both the UEFA Youth League and the U-19 Bundesliga.
His impressive performances during the 2025/26 season earned him recognition beyond the academy setup, as he was included in Bayer Leverkusen’s matchday squad for their Bundesliga clash against SC Freiburg. The teenager also had the opportunity to train with the club’s senior team.
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The move to FC Utrecht represents an opportunity for Chigozie Owen to make his breakthrough in senior football. Although several clubs expressed interest in signing the young attacker, he ultimately opted for Utrecht after being convinced by the club’s vision and development plan.
“The first time I came here, it immediately felt like a warm welcome,” Chigozie Owen said after arriving at Galgenwaard Stadium. “I think I am strong on the ball and that I can contribute well physically. I am someone who is creative and loves creating chances, assists, and goals.”
Speaking about his ambitions, the youngster added: “My goal is to adapt here in the Netherlands as quickly as possible. I want to play as much as possible. Whether that is with Jong FC Utrecht or the first team doesn’t matter that much to me at the moment. I want to develop myself.”
Bayer Leverkusen’s Director of Football, Kim Falkenberg, believes the move is the right step in the youngster’s development while insisting the Bundesliga club will continue to monitor his progress.
“Emmanuel Chigozie Owen has great potential and we will be following his progress closely,” Falkenberg said
Although Chigozie Owen has represented Germany at youth level, he remains proud of his Nigerian heritage and is still eligible to play for the Super Eagles at senior international level
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