Croatian club 1961 Istra has secured the signing of Nigeria’s rising star, Charles Agada, beating several top European teams to land the talented forward.
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The former Golden Eaglets striker, who turned 18 in September 2024, has committed to a four-year contract with the Croatian top-flight club. His signing makes him the third Nigerian player to join Istra in the past two years.
Agada had previously attracted interest from several European clubs, including Queens Park Rangers (QPR) of England, who offered him a pre-contract deal. However, that move ultimately did not materialize.
Istra, confident in Agada’s potential, believes Croatia is the ideal environment for him to launch his professional career in Europe. He joins fellow Nigerian youngsters Salim Fago Lawal and Israel Isaac Ayuma, both of whom also came through Mavlon FC of Lagos.
Agada first gained international recognition in 2023 when he emerged as the top scorer at the prestigious Viareggio Tournament in Italy, netting 10 goals. He also represented Nigeria at the AFCON U-17 tournament in Algeria, where he scored in the 3-2 victory over South Africa during the group stage.
Despite being promoted to Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Agada was sidelined by injury and missed the 2024 WAFU B U-20 regional tournament, which Nigeria ultimately won under coach Aliyu Zubairu.
Now at Istra, Agada looks forward to making his mark in European football.
