Former Remo-Stars and Warri Wolves central defender, Olalere Oluwasegun, has recounted his experiences with second-tier Danish side, Aarhus Fremad, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 24-year-old left-footed centre-back moved abroad from Remo Stars in October to join Aarhus Fremad. The club is also owned by a Nigerian – Shola Akinlade, who also owns the newly relegated Nigeran side, Sporting Lagos.
After eight months in Denmark, Olalere recounted his experience in Denmark with Soccernet.ng, highlighting the difference in culture and how tough it has been to adapt to a new environment.
“My first year in Denmark has been so crazy because I’ve been going through a lot. With the weather and food, I had to adapt. It’s My first time playing outside of Nigeria. So I had to be strong,” the former Warri Wolves defender said.
Aarhus Fremad narrowly missed out on promotion to the First Division of the Danish league, finishing a point below FC Roskilde. Speaking on how the team’s season ended, Olalere already meted out his plans with the club for next season, setting his sights on promotion with his club.
“We missed out on promotion, but we should get promoted next season, and we will give everything. We saw how this season went and it should have been much better.”
🚨The second half of our conversation with Oluwasegun Olalere, the Nigerian defender who’s making a name for himself at Aarhus Fremad 🗺️🇳🇬
🎥 Interview by: @Jololade #Soccernet #segunolalere #aarhusfremad pic.twitter.com/TEPVCZHrCf
— Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) June 25, 2024
One of the highs of the young defender in Denmark has been the love he’s received from the fans and teammates likewise, making him feel welcome despite being the only black and non-Danish player at the club.
“Everything is beautiful, they sing my name. The fans have been amazing, and they made me feel at home, they didn’t make me feel like I’m the only black player here. They made it seem like I’ve been here for years and I appreciate everything. I appreciate the love and the warm welcome and I love them so much.”
Quizzed about how it feels to play in a club owned by a Nigerian, Olalere revealed he feels respected at the club, although there is no segregation.
“They respect me, and it feels good. There’s nothing Nigerian really. The club is owned by everyone, the players, and that’s why we give our all.”
Speaking on his relationship with the club’s CEO, Shola Akinlade, the 24-year-old versatile defender was filled with praise.
“When I was about to join the club, he told me to come and enjoy myself. He told me I’m strong and my being at the club is not a mistake. He is a very good man, I love and respect him so much,” the Super Eagles defender concluded.
As Olalere Oluwasegun continues his professional career in Denmark, his drive to lead Aarhus to the top division remains unwavering.