Both Timothy Ouma and his agent Patrick Mork have explained why they snubbed overtures from the likes of Luton and Sheffield United to join Slavia Prague.
Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma has explained why he turned down offers from English clubs such as Sheffield United, Luton Town, and Brentford to sign for Czech giants Slavia Prague.
Ouma made a high-profile move worth Ksh473 million from Swedish side IF Elfsborg to Slavia Prague and was officially unveiled on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
Renowned football agent Patrick Mork, who represents the midfielder and orchestrated the transfer, disclosed that Ouma had multiple offers but opted for Slavia for strategic reasons.
“We got the deal you wanted, despite so many other offers. Slavia Prague will be the perfect next step in your career,” Mork stated in an Instagram post featuring photos from Ouma's unveiling.
The Barcelona-based agent also heaped praise on the Kenyan international, expressing confidence in his potential to achieve greatness in European football.
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“Since I saw you for the first time in the Kenyan league, I was convinced you would become the next McDonald Mariga and one day win the Champions League! Good luck at Slavia, Timo,” Mork added.
Mork worked alongside Kenyan agent Jamal Ibrahim to secure the move, continuing a track record of facilitating Kenyan players' transfers to Europe. The duo has also overseen moves for 18-year-old Stanley Wilson to AIK and Humphrey Aroko, who is currently on trial with AIK at their training camp in Marbella, Spain.
Slavia Prague, like Ouma's former club Elfsborg, were eliminated from the UEFA Europa League league phase, finishing 30th with just five points. However, the Czech giants are enjoying domestic dominance, leading the Chance Liga with 53 points after 20 rounds, 10 points clear at the top. They are now favorites to claim the league title for the first time in three years.
Speaking to Slavia's official YouTube channel after completing his move, Ouma expressed his eagerness to make an impact at his new club following a stellar season at Elfsborg, where he starred in both the Swedish league and the Europa League.
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“It feels great. I am looking forward to getting on the pitch and making a difference. I am excited to see how next season unfolds for all of us,” Ouma said.
Reflecting on his Europa League experience, which saw him face European heavyweights like AZ Alkmaar, Roma, and Galatasaray, Ouma highlighted the lessons he gained from competing at the highest level.
“Europe is a different experience. I have played against some really good teams and players, and I have learned a lot from playing in front of intense crowds,” he noted.
On adjusting to life in Prague, the 20-year-old admitted he was still getting acclimated but was eager to embrace the challenge.
“I have not been in the city for long, but it is very beautiful. It is a great challenge for me, being only the second Kenyan to play here. I need to perform, be there for the team, and push alongside my teammates.”
“I am excited about the journey ahead with my new team for the remainder of the season. I have seen videos of the atmosphere created by the fans here, and it looks incredible,” he added.
Ouma joins a select group of Kenyan players to feature for Slavia Prague. Harambee Starlets striker Marjolen Nekesa also plays for the club, having signed in 2022. She made history as the first Kenyan woman to play in the Czech Republic and was the top scorer of the 2022–23 Czech Women's First League with 14 goals.
With his move to Slavia Prague, Ouma now has the platform to showcase his talent on a bigger stage, and Kenyan fans will be keenly watching his progress in the Czech Republic.