With a statement on the official website, Austrian Bundesliga side WSG Tirol has confirmed that Nigeria-eligible forward Michael Olakigbe has joined the club on loan from Premier League side Brentford FC ahead of the new season.
The 22-year-old attacking talent makes the switch to Austria as part of a move designed to secure regular first-team football and further accelerate his development in a competitive European environment.
The loan deal sees him join Wattens for the duration of the campaign as they look to add pace and creativity to their attacking unit.
Olakigbe, who is eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents, has steadily built his career through England’s football pathway.
He spent his early development years at Fulham FC and Queens Park Rangers academies, where his technical ability, acceleration, and direct attacking style marked him out as a promising prospect.
His performances earned him a professional contract with Brentford in 2022, and he soon became part of the first-team setup.
During the 2023/24 season, Olakigbe gained valuable Premier League experience, making eight substitute appearances in England’s top flight.
He also featured in domestic cup competitions, including the FA Cup and EFL Cup, as he continued to adapt to senior football.
To further his development, he also spent time on loan at Swindon Town, where he added more competitive minutes and gained exposure to regular match intensity.
Olakigbe has represented England at youth level, earning 11 caps across Under-18 and Under-20 teams and scoring twice. Despite this, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria at senior level.
Now in Austria, Olakigbe will be aiming to take the next step in his career by establishing himself in the Austrian Bundesliga, with WSG Tirol expected to utilise his speed, creativity, and attacking versatility throughout the campaign.
Wale Adejumo
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