Exclusive: FK Partizan Star Ibrahim Zubairu Opens Up on His New Home

Ghanaian forward Ibrahim Zubairu lifts the lid on his high-profile transfer to Serbian giants FK Partizan, sharing his first impressions of the electric Partizan Stadium atmosphere and the disappointment of missing out on European football action.

FK Partizan's new recruit, Ibrahim Zubairu, aims to leave a mark in the 2024/25 season. With a goal and two assists already under his belt in nine games, the former Ghana U-20 captain is confident his experience with FK Jedinstvo Ub will serve him well. 

Zubairu impressed last season in the Serbian First League, notching 36 appearances, 13 goals, and 7 assists, securing FK Jedinstvo Ub's promotion and earning his move to FK Partizan for £500,000, which he describes as a "dream come true.”

A FEW WEEKS IN BELGRADE 

After honing his skills in the Ghana Premier League with Kumasi King Faisal Babies for several years, Zubairu made the leap to Serbian side FK Jedinstvo in 2022. Two years later, his long-held dream of competing at the pinnacle of European football is on the cusp of realization.

"It's every player's dream to play for a big club in Europe or elsewhere, and I'm no different," Zubairu said. "I was excited to join FK Jedinstvo because it was a big stepping stone for me, and I couldn't resist,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

"I had a lot of support from my Ghanaian teammates and the national team. They're great platforms for learning, growth, and development. The Ghana Premier League isn't an easy league – you can't just go away and win matches. You need to play above your weight, and I think it's the same everywhere."

Now an FK Partizan player, Zubairu expressed his delight. "I love the atmosphere at the Partizan Stadium. Patience rewards, and finally, I'm here. It's a lot of hard work. People doubted if I could do it, but it's a dream come true."

With the league underway, Zubairu emphasized the team's focus. 

EUROPE'S DREAM NOT SHATTERED 

FK Partizan's European campaign came to a premature end after a narrow defeat to Belgian side Gent in the UEFA Conference League qualifying phase.

The Black-Whites bowed out of the competition, conceding two crucial goals over the two-legged fixture, ultimately falling short of the UEFA Conference League group stage.

"Growing up, I'd watch European competitions, telling myself, 'I'll play there one day,'" Zubairu reminisced. 

"Traveling with my teammates for matches outside Serbia was an incredible experience." he revealed smiling.

“Missing out on European competition was a huge blow,” I admitted. “We worked tirelessly but fell short against Gent in qualifying. The team had high hopes, and it didn't materialize.”

“The team has immense talent and quality. We'll bounce back stronger; I have no doubt we'll return to European competitions soon.”

"Playing for Partizan has exposed me to top-level European football. Qualifying next season is on everyone's mind; I'm hopeful we'll make it happen." he revealed.

"Missing out on European competition is disappointing, but we've learned a lot as players. I look forward to future opportunities.”