Super Eagles midfielder Samson Tijani has opened up about one of the most challenging periods of his career in Salzburg, Austria, where injuries and uncertainty disrupted his development. 

In an exclusive interview with Flashscore, the 23-year-old described the physical and mental struggles that kept him from regular football and shaped his journey to Dukla Prague in the Czech Republic.

Tijani first gained international attention at the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil, where he captained Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets and impressed in midfield.

His performances attracted interest from top European clubs, ultimately leading to a move to Red Bull Salzburg from Lagos-based Collins Edwin Sports Club.

However, injuries hampered his progress, with a fractured tibia and fibula ruling him out for nearly a year.

Loans to Hartberg, Liefering, Wolfsberger, and Fredrikstad provided playing opportunities but failed to offer the stability he sought.

Looking back, Tijani reflected: “I see it as part of life and part of my journey as a footballer. At Salzburg, I wasn’t really able to show my full quality. I don’t want to give excuses, but the truth is that injury played a big role”.

He added: “Getting injured slowed me down at a crucial time, and in a club like Salzburg, there is very little room to wait. It is a place where young talents are constantly developing and being promoted, whether to the first team or the second team.”

After a loan spell in Norway with Fredrikstad, Tijani signed a contract with Dukla Prague in June 2025.

The move has increased the number of African players at Juliska to four, alongside compatriot Chinonso Emeka and Mali’s Boubou Diallo and Ivorian Mouhamed Tidjane Traore.

Speaking about the Czech league, Tijani stated: “Before coming to the Czech Republic, I didn't know much about the competition. On the outside, a lot of people think it's just an average competition and don't follow it much. But when you look at how Czech clubs do in European cups, you'll find that it's not easy at all and the league deserves much more respect.”

Tijani credited Dukla’s coach, David Holoubek, for his current form: “David is a very good coach and a person who really understands football. He is clear in his ideas and knows exactly what he wants from the players. In addition to the tactical side, he knows how to listen, communicates well and supports the players on and off the field.”

Dukla Prague currently sits 14th in the Chance League, with Tijani optimistic about survival: “Our goal is to avoid relegation and, if possible, finish at least in the middle of the table. We work hard every day and stick together. With God’s help, I believe our efforts will pay off.”

Wale Adejumo