It took one phone call home to seal it.
When Nigeria striker Terem Moffi told his father that Hamburger SV wanted him, the answer came back instantly. No hesitation. No second-guessing. Just pride.
“My father immediately knew which club I was talking about and was really excited,” Moffi said after signing for the Rothosen from OGC Nice. “For me, that was crazy in a positive way.”
The 27-year-old has now completed his medical at the Athleticum and signed on to lead HSV’s attack, taking the iconic No. 9 shirt for the new Bundesliga campaign. He becomes the club’s seventh summer signing.
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A Father’s Nod Seals Bundesliga Dream
For Moffi, Hamburg wasn’t just another offer. It was history calling.
“Even though HSV spent a few years in the second division, the club is still a big name, and that is the case all over the world,” he said. “The coach was really very convincing in our conversations. The location, with its fantastic fans, and the club’s overall direction also played a role.”
Board Member Kathleen Krüger said the club wanted more than goals. “His career to date has given him extensive experience at a high international level, which he can also pass on to our young players.”
Rothosen Land A Striker With Bite
Sporting Director Claus Costa didn’t mince words about what Moffi brings.
“Terem is a striker who is difficult to contain because of his physicality, determination and style of play,” Costa said. “He is capable of attacking the space in behind, has an enormous presence in the penalty area and possesses the necessary defensive qualities.”
Moffi agrees. “As a striker, of course I love scoring goals, but I also love working for the team and keeping the whole group together.”
From Calabar To The Volkspark: Six Countries Later
Born in Calabar on 25 May 1999, Moffi’s journey has been anything but straight. England at 17, then Lithuania, Belgium, France, and a loan spell at Porto last season. Germany is now country number seven.
In 228 club games he has 88 goals and 13 assists. For Nigeria since 2021 he has 23 caps, 6 goals and 2 assists — including lining up in October 2023 alongside new HSV teammate Jordan Torunarigha.
“I’m the new guy in the team now,” Moffi said, smiling. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone and getting started together soon.”
