A Nigerian professional footballer who played as a striker for several clubs, including Portsmouth and Everton, and is known for his speed and goal-scoring ability.
Yakubu Ayegbeni, affectionately known as The Yak, is a Nigerian football agent and former professional footballer who left an indelible mark on the Premier League as a prolific striker. With 96 goals to his name, he stands as the fourth highest African goalscorer in Premier League history.
Born on November 22, 1982, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Yakubu began his football journey with Julius Berger in Lagos, playing in the Nigerian Premier League as a teenager. A loan spell with Portuguese club Gil Vicente followed, before he made a permanent move to Israeli side Maccabi Haifa for $300,000.
Yakubu's impressive performances for Maccabi Haifa, particularly in the 2002-2003 UEFA Champions League, caught the attention of European clubs. He scored seven goals in eight European Cup appearances, including a hat-trick against Olympiakos and a penalty in the 3-0 win over Manchester United.
In January 2003, Yakubu moved to Portsmouth on loan, and later signed permanently, helping the team win the 2002-2003 First Division title. His success continued with subsequent transfers to Middlesbrough, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers, accumulating over 250 Premier League appearances.
Yakubu represented Nigeria in several international tournaments, including four African Cup of Nations finals, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the 2000 Summer Olympic Games. He is the third highest scorer in the history of the Nigeria national football team.
Yakubu's exceptional goal-scoring ability, pace, and power earned him a revered status in the Premier League. His impressive performances and goalscoring record make him one of the most successful African players in Premier League history.
After retiring from professional football, Yakubu transitioned into a successful career as a football agent, using his experience and knowledge to nurture young talent. He has also been involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting Nigerian football development programs.
Yakubu's remarkable career is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the beautiful game. As one of the most successful Nigerian players in Premier League history, his legacy continues to inspire aspiring footballers across the globe.
49 Years Old
A Nigerian professional footballer who won numerous titles with Arsenal and Portsmouth, and is revered for his exceptional skill and charity work.
55 Years Old
A skilled and pacey winger who played for top clubs like Ajax and Real Betis, and won the 1994 African Cup of Nations with Nigeria.
51 Years Old
A Nigerian football legend who played for top clubs like Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, and later managed the Nigerian national team. He's known for his skills on the pitch and tactical prowess as a coach.
62 Years Old
Nigeria's all-time leading scorer, a prolific striker who netted 37 goals in 58 appearances, famously scoring the country's first World Cup goal in 1994.
