Aston Villa sign Imuran as Nigeria defender eyes bigger stage

Rofiat Imuran’s limited role with the Super Falcons has not stopped the Nigerian defender from taking another major step in her club career, with Aston Villa confirming her signing ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 22-year-old full-back joins the English club after establishing herself in the domestic game with London City Lionesses, earning a move to a Villa side that is continuing to strengthen under manager Natalia Arroyo.

Aston Villa announced the signing over the weekend, subject to visa approval, making Imuran the club’s ninth addition of the summer transfer window.

While her opportunities with Nigeria have been restricted in recent years, Imuran has remained part of the national team setup.

She made her senior international debut in 2022 and was included in Nigeria’s squads for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

At the most recent WAFCON tournament in Morocco, Imuran was largely a substitute and made only one appearance, coming off the bench in Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Zambia.

Her club career, however, has followed a different trajectory.

Imuran began her senior career in France with Stade de Reims, where she made 27 league appearances and scored seven goals over two seasons.

She moved to England in 2024 to join London City Lionesses, where her performances have helped her earn another opportunity in the Women’s Super League with Aston Villa.

The move gives Imuran a fresh platform to compete at a higher level and potentially strengthen her claim for increased involvement with the Super Falcons.

“I’m very excited to be here, and I want to achieve a lot of things,” Imuran said after completing the move.

“It’s a big club with a lot of history, and it has big ambitions, and I want to be part of it.”

Right qualities

Marisa Ewers, the club’s director of Women’s Football, said Imuran’s qualities suited the style Arroyo is seeking to implement.

“Rofiat is an exciting young defender who already has good experience in English football and at the international level.

“She brings pace, energy and quality to our defensive options, and we believe her attributes are a really good fit for how Natalia wants the team to play.”

Ewers also highlighted the club’s ambition to strengthen its links with African football.

“As a club, we have ambitions to build stronger connections across Africa and continue to identify and develop exciting talent from the continent. Rofiat’s arrival is another positive step in that direction.

“We’re delighted to welcome her to Aston Villa and look forward to seeing her continue to develop with us.”

Villa ended their announcement with a message to its new signing: “Welcome to the Villa family, Rofiat!💜”