Young Ghanaian Midfielder Set for European Debut After Injury Setback

After months of perseverance and patience, Ghanaian midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana is on the brink of a milestone moment in his career. The 21-year-old has been named in Atalanta’s squad for the UEFA Champions League knockout play-offs, marking his long-awaited entry onto Europe’s grandest club stage.

Sulemana’s journey with Atalanta has been far from straightforward. Shortly after his move from Cagliari, an unfortunate injury ruled him out of the Champions League group stage, delaying his opportunity to make an impact. However, his recent return to action—featuring as a second-half substitute in Atalanta’s emphatic 5-0 win over Hellas Verona—has reignited hopes of a breakthrough.

Atalanta’s midfield, anchored by the experienced Marten De Roon and Ederson, has made it difficult for Sulemana to secure regular minutes. Yet, manager Gian Piero Gasperini has placed faith in the young Ghanaian, recognizing his potential to contribute as the team pushes for domestic and European success.

With Atalanta currently sitting third in Serie A and aiming for silverware, Sulemana’s inclusion in the squad offers him the chance to step onto the Champions League stage for the first time. His dream debut could come this Wednesday, as La Dea travel to Belgium for the first leg of their knockout tie against Club Brugge at the Jan Breydel Stadium.

For Sulemana, this is more than just a squad selection—it’s the start of a new chapter, one that could see him etch his name into Atalanta’s European journey.