In a remarkable journey that has taken him from the bustling streets of Freetown to the grand stages of European football, Juma Bah, an 18-year-old defender, has become a name to watch in the world of soccer.
Standing tall at 1.95 meters, this athletic player has made waves with his commanding presence on the field, particularly in aerial duels. Now, with a loan move to RC Lens in France until June 2025, Bah is ready to showcase his talents in the competitive arena of Ligue 1 while being part of the prestigious Manchester City FC family. A Journey of Unconventional Beginnings Born in Sierra Leone, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Juma Bah’s early life was far from the glamour of professional sports.
The nickname “Lion Mountain,” which refers to the iconic silhouette of the Freetown peninsula, aptly symbolizes his roots. For much of his youth, Bah was immersed in the family bakery, dedicating his time to helping his parents make bread and manage their small business.
While many young athletes dream of stardom, Bah’s reality involved kneading dough and serving customers, all while honing his skills on the streets of Freetown, where makeshift football pitches became his training ground. In 2021, Bah’s fortunes began to change when he joined AIK Freetong, a local football club. His raw talent quickly shone through, and within months, he was making a name for himself. By 2022, he had caught the attention of Freetonians SLIFA FC, where he stepped onto the national stage. At just 16 years old, Bah emerged as a key player, earning recognition not only in Sierra Leone but also beyond its borders. His impressive performances laid the groundwork for what would soon become a meteoric rise in his football career.
Accelerating Towards Greatness
The year 2023 marked a significant turning point for Juma Bah. Recognized as one of the brightest talents in Sierra Leonean football, he received his first call-up to the national team for the October gathering. Although he had yet to don the Sierra Leonean jersey, Bah was determined to soak in the experience of international competitions, training alongside seasoned professionals and preparing for the challenges that lay ahead. His transition from the streets of Freetown to the heights of European football was rapid.
Spotted by scouts from various international clubs, Bah signed with Real Valladolid CF at the start of the 2024/25 season. Initially joining the reserve team, his talent was undeniable, and it wasn’t long before he made his debut in the Segunda Federacion, Spain’s fourth division. Bah’s first match in La Liga came against Real Sociedad, where he played a crucial role in securing a 0-0 draw, making history as the first Sierra Leonean to compete in Spain’s top league. A Rising Star in La Liga Juma Bah’s performances in La Liga have been nothing short of impressive. Despite his youth, he has demonstrated maturity and composure on the field, earning a reputation as a reliable defender. His ability to read the game and initiate attacks has set him apart, as he averages an impressive 4.38 progressive passes per match—the highest among La Liga players under 20 years old. Defensively, he has proven to be a rock, suffering the fewest dribbles in the league and excelling in aerial duels, where he ranks among the best.
By mid-January, Bah had accumulated a remarkable 865 minutes of play, participating in every match from J13 to J20. His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, with several European giants keeping a close eye on his progress. This attention culminated in a significant move to Manchester City, a testament to his potential and promise as a future star.
A New Chapter in Artois
With his transfer to Manchester City, Juma Bah was immediately loaned to RC Lens, where he will continue his development in a new environment. His arrival in Artois has been met with excitement, as he is seen as a perfect fit for Will Still’s squad. Known for his fighting spirit and defensive prowess, Bah is eager to make an impact in Ligue 1, donning the number 27 jersey for Racing Club de Lens. Pierre Dréossi, General Manager of RC Lens, expressed his enthusiasm for Bah’s arrival: “We are delighted to welcome Juma Bah to Racing. At just 18 years old, he has established himself as one of the most promising players in La Liga. His early move to Manchester City underscores his immense potential. With his athletic abilities and strong game awareness, Juma brings a skill set that aligns perfectly with the DNA of Will Still’s team. We look forward to seeing him thrive in Sang et Or.”
The Future Awaits As Juma Bah embarks on this new chapter in his career, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of a nation. From the humble beginnings of his family’s bakery to the bright lights of European football, his story is one of resilience, determination, and talent. With his eyes set on greatness, Bah is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of football, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. The journey of this Sierra Leonean defender is just beginning, and fans around the globe will be watching closely as he takes the field in the coming months.
