The star striker’s affection for the club and supporters seems to be steering him towards a continued stay, amidst speculation about his future.
- Chuba Akpom hints at staying with Middlesbrough following a record-breaking season.
- Akpom’s contract expires in 12 months amidst Premier League interest, but his recent comments indicate his intent to stay.
- He speaks highly of his time at Middlesbrough and the role manager Michael Carrick played in his career turnaround.
Akpom fuels Middlesbrough stay rumours
In an exclusive chat with the Boro Breakdown Podcast, Middlesbrough’s scoring sensation Chuba Akpom has dropped the biggest hint yet that he’s looking forward to another season with the club.
After an impressive record-breaking season that saw the former Arsenal youngster net 29 goals, it appears that the striker’s bond with the club and its supporters could convince him to stay.
A season to remember
Akpom’s journey at Middlesbrough has been one for the books.
After being close to exiting the club last summer, he fought his way back to contention, becoming an integral part of the squad under the stewardship of manager Michael Carrick.
He won both the Boro Player of the Season award and the Championship Player of the Year award, also taking home the golden boot.
Unfinished business?
Despite his contract expiry looming in a year, and the speculation surrounding his possible exit due to Middlesbrough’s failure to secure Premier League promotion, Akpom’s recent sentiments might just hint towards his intention to stay.
Expressing his gratitude towards the club’s supporters, Akpom said, “The love just gives me the motivation to go and do the same thing again.”
Looking to the future
Speaking on the potential of the team, Akpom stated his excitement about the coming season.
Acknowledging the impact of Carrick on the squad and expecting a few additions to the team, the star striker seems eager for another shot at the Championship title.
As Middlesbrough supporters hold their breath, Akpom’s sentiments suggest a continued stay at the Riverside.
His determination and anticipation for the next season could prove critical to Middlesbrough’s bid for Premier League promotion. As the summer transfer window approaches, the outcome remains to be seen.
Chuba Akpom at Arsenal
Chuba Akpom began his football journey in the youth ranks at Arsenal, showcasing his immense potential from a young age.
Joining the Gunners at just six years old, Akpom quickly made a name for himself within the club’s academy, standing out for his speed, agility, and uncanny ability to find the back of the net.
Progressing through the youth ranks, he made his debut for the Arsenal U18 side at the tender age of 15, and his performances soon saw him promoted to the U23 squad. The young striker continued to impress at this level, and it was not long before he was knocking on the door of the first team.
Akpom made his first senior appearance for Arsenal in September 2013 during a Premier League fixture against Sunderland, marking his debut aged 17.
While he didn’t manage to establish himself as a regular in the Arsenal first team, his involvement in the squad was seen as a testament to his potential.
However, during his time at Arsenal, Akpom was sent on several loan spells to clubs like Brentford, Coventry City, and Nottingham Forest.
These moves aimed to give him regular game time and help him develop his skills further.
While he showed flashes of brilliance, he couldn’t quite replicate his youth team form consistently in the senior setup.
Eventually, in 2018, Akpom left Arsenal permanently to join Greek side PAOK. His time at Arsenal will always be remembered as the place where he developed his talent and took his first steps in professional football, providing a solid foundation for his career.
Despite not breaking into the first team permanently, Akpom’s development at Arsenal undeniably played a crucial role in shaping him as a player.
