The chilling story of Moses Odjer: from Ghana to Salernitana, dreaming of Europe

Published on: 20 February 2018

Italy-based midfielder Moses Odjer has been touching on how he left Ghana aged 17, to feature for Italian side  Salernitana.

The 21-year-old talented midfielder joined Salerno in 2015 after leaving Catania where he made 11 appearances.

The young Ghanaian shared an emotional story of how he left the West African nation with a dream of playing in Europe.

The grenade people had the chance to meet the Ghanaian at a gathering which was moderated by Gianluca Francese.

"I started from Ghana with the dream of becoming a footballer " said Odjer, applauded by the audience "my situation was not so dramatic, but I knew that the only way to play football at certain levels was to travel around Europe.

"The first club that bet on me was Chievoverona, at the beginning it was difficult because I had to adapt to another culture in a city totally foreign to me. I did not know anyone, I was 17 and I spent my days in a hotel thinking of my family who were so far away.

"Later Catania bought me by taking out a nice sum, I did everything to take advantage of that opportunity and I met many teammates who helped me. In Salerno I feel very well, has become a sort of second home thanks to the excellent relationship with the dressing room.

"I have to thank Sasà Avallone, also "dad" Minala and all the other guys. The city is beautiful, the cheer is very hot and as soon as I recover from injury I want to go back to being the player you all met in the first season.

"It is true that, thanks to social networks, today it is easier to communicate with those who are far from you, but to see my family once a year and for a few weeks it hurts. Like all children aged 22 to 23, parents are missing "

Odjer, who donated a shirt to a less fortunate child and encouraged all the fellow countrymen, continued: "I'm happy to play for Salernitana, I do not know what the future holds for me."

"The English Championship fascinates me a lot, who knows? one day I can try this kind of experience, my real dream is to be able to look after more to help not only my family, but also all the people who suffer.I started from scratch and I feel lucky, not all they have had the same destiny and it is my duty to help them.

"In the meantime I enjoy Salerno, the fans and this city which is a sort of second home."

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Learn more