Danish top side FC Midtjylland have announced the signing of 21-year-old Nigerian forward Stanley Iheanacho from Portuguese second-tier side CD Mafra on a contract running until December 2030, Bold Sports reports.
The move marks a return to the Danish club for Iheanacho, who previously featured for Midtjylland’s U-19 team in 2023 before joining CD Mafra, where he spent two seasons. During his spell in Portugal, he scored 17 goals in 65 appearances.
While with Midtjylland’s U-19 side, Iheanacho registered 12 goals in 22 matches and also scored twice in four UEFA Youth League appearances. He made his senior debut for the Danish club in a cup tie against Aabenraa BK, where he netted four goals.
Speaking at the player’s unveiling, Sporting Director Kristian Bach Bak expressed delight at the club’s decision to re-sign the talented striker.
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“Stanley has taken significant steps in his development during his two years at Mafra. At first, he was gradually introduced into the team and had to fight for minutes, but last season he contributed with goals and assists and played an important role. He has matured,” Bach Bak said.
“He is a fantastic person, very positive and cheerful, and as a player he possesses excellent top speed. He is dynamic, constantly moves, and is aggressive in pressing situations. He works hard and also has the valuable ability to score goals.”
Reacting to the move, Iheanacho said he is delighted to return to the club where he developed in European football and is eager to make an impact and help the team compete for trophies.
“I see this as a great opportunity for me to return to FC Midtjylland. I really enjoyed my time here in the academy; it was a springboard for my career and the beginning of my journey.
“I was fortunate to make my first-team debut, which I am very happy about, but at the time, the right decision was to move to Mafra. I got valuable playing time and had a strong last season. Now I feel the next step is to come back to Midtjylland, hopefully earn playing time, and continue my development.
“I already know many of the players, as several teammates from my U19 days and my time at Mafra are now in the first team. I’m looking forward to being part of the club again, competing for trophies, and playing in the Europa League.”
Before moving to Europe in the 2023/24 season, Iheanacho featured for Abuja-based FC Heart Academy.
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