19-year-old Damola Ajayi scored on his debut for Tottenham after coming off the bench to replace Richarlison in a Europa League game against. Elfsborg.
It took only four minutes to score a wonderful run across the edge of the penalty and a low finish with his left foot.
“I feel like it’s just like, the way my mom’s always kind of brought me up like when you get an opportunity, you’ve got to take it like you gotta go for it and not be afraid and just take whatever you can.” Ajayi shares post-match thoughts.
Background
Ajayi’s parents are avid football fans and were crucial in supporting his early football career ambitions.
London-born Damola Ajayi was previously at Bromley FC before joining our Academy.
Formerly a pupil at Haberdashers’ Aske School, the forward made two appearances for the Under-18s in 2021/22 while still a schoolboy. He went full-time with Tottenham as a scholar in July 2022.
Talented winger Damola Ajayi, a London-born player with Nigerian roots, signed a professional contract extension with Tottenham Hotspur on January 5th, 2025.
Damola Ajayi: A Milestone and Taking His Chances
Ajayi reached a milestone when he got included in Tottenham’s squad for a UEFA Europa League match against Ferencváros, managed by Ange Postecoglou.
Although Ajayi did not play, his inclusion highlighted his growing reputation within the club ranks.
“I’ve come through here. So like just to be able to like share the stage with some of the big players. Sonny Pedro. Like it was such a surreal moment and yeah, I’m just thankful.”
Despite limited opportunities with the senior squad, Ajayi has been a standout performer at the youth level, scoring 19 goals in 42 appearances for the U-18s and five more for the U-21s.
Fans and club officials are optimistic about his bright future at Tottenham.