Ghanaian midfielder Hans Nunoo Sarpei is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter in his football journey after signing a contract with HJK Helsinki.
The talented midfielder, who last saw action during the previous summer when his contract with German third-tier club FC Ingolstadt concluded, expressed his enthusiasm for the fresh opportunity awaiting him in Finland's capital.
Sarpei brings a wealth of experience to HJK Helsinki, having showcased his skills across various tiers of German football. With stints in the Bundesliga with VfB Stuttgart and Greuter Fürth, as well as a successful spell in the 2nd Bundesliga with Greuter Fürth, Sarpei's versatility and expertise promise to bolster HJK's midfield.
Notably, the midfielder's tenure in Germany's third tier with Ingolstadt saw him in action for 30 games last season. Sarpei's football journey also took him on loan to FK Senica in the Slovakian league.
"It is understandable that people think that I have been on the sidelines for a long time. But it is often forgotten that quality is quality, and my skills have not disappeared anywhere. I have also trained my physical condition practically every day to be ready when the time comes," Sarpei emphasizes.
"I wouldn't use that term myself," Sarpei stutters when the interviewer asks if it's about "restarting a career".
"I would rather say that it's time to start writing a new chapter in my story together with HJK and its great supporters and get to share every moment together.
"I am grateful to HJK's club management, coaching and players that I have been given the opportunity to enjoy football again!"
Sarpei made his debut on the difficult dry artificial turf of Tali.
"Of course, it's not the easiest platform to play on, but a professional has to adapt to different situations. The most important thing for me was to be sure in the games that I'm still fit to play. I have been a fighter since I was a child and I still am," he added.