Nigerian forward Abdulmalik has explained why he refused to train at Boreham Wood before sealing his move to Swedish club Djurgardens.
The 23-year-old became one of the biggest transfer stories involving a Nigerian player this summer after completing a record-breaking move from the National League side to the Swedish top-flight club. The deal reportedly made him the most expensive player ever sold by a National League team.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding his refusal to train, Abdulmalik said he was trying to protect the transfer from collapsing.
According to the striker, there was a risk that an injury could have ruined the move completely.
“If I get injured, the move is over,” he explained while discussing his decision to stay away from training during negotiations.
The transfer did not happen without drama. Boreham Wood had rejected several bids from Djurgardens, leading to frustration from the player, who publicly stated that opportunities like the move were rare in a footballer’s career.
Club chairman Danny Hunter had earlier revealed that Abdulmalik refused to train and play while discussions over the transfer continued. The situation created tension between both parties before an agreement was eventually reached.
Abdulmalik enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, scoring goals regularly and helping Boreham Wood compete for promotion. His performances attracted interest from several clubs before Djurgardens won the race for his signature.
Now settled in Sweden, the Nigerian forward will be focused on proving himself at a higher level.
The gamble paid off. The move he fought so hard to secure is now complete, and he has the chance to take the next step in his career with one of Sweden’s biggest clubs.
