RSC Anderlecht announced the departure of Tudor Mendel-Idowu, a promising forward who has decided to return to England after a year in Belgium.
Mendel-Idowu, a product of Chelsea’s prestigious Cobham academy, turned down a contract extension with the London club to join Anderlecht last summer.
However, after a season in the Belgian capital, the young talent has signed a permanent deal with Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town.
During his time at Anderlecht, Mendel-Idowu did not make a senior team appearance but featured in sixteen matches for RSCA Futures, the club’s reserve team competing in the Challenger Pro League. Despite limited game time, he managed to score once, showcasing flashes of his potential.
Mendel-Idowu’s footballing lineage is notable, as his grandfather, John Adeleye-Abai, played internationally for Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Despite his Nigerian roots, the left-footed winger is reportedly inclined to represent England on the international stage, adding an intriguing element to his budding career.
At Ipswich Town, Mendel-Idowu is expected to start with the club’s development squad, where he will be registered as a U21 player in their Premier League roster. He joins a growing contingent of young talents with Nigerian heritage at the club, including Emmanuel Okunowo and Afikunoluwa Adebayo, among others.
Anderlecht expressed their gratitude for Mendel-Idowu’s contributions during his tenure and wished him success in his future endeavors. Although he leaves Brussels without a senior cap, the 20-year-old forward is poised to make his mark in England, carrying the lessons learned from his time abroad back to familiar territory.
Reflecting on his move, Mendel-Idowu shared his optimism: “This is a new chapter in my career, and I’m excited to be part of Ipswich Town’s journey in the Premier League. I’m ready to work hard and show what I can do.”
Mendel-Idowu’s future at Ipswich Town will be closely watched as he embarks on this next phase of his promising football journey.
