FK Sumgayit Seals Signing of Abdoul Rachid Moumini from Ayema FC
Azerbaijan Premier League side FK Sumgayit have officially confirmed the signing of Abdoul Rachid Moumini, the 20 year old right back from Ayema FC in Benin, on a three year contract. This marks his first professional move outside his home country.
Moumini emerged at Ayema FC as a standout performer, earning national team call ups for Benin and attracting interest from European clubs. His decision to join Sumgayit was influenced by the club’s ambitious project under president Riad Rafiyev, who convinced him of the developmental vision offered at the Azerbaijani outfit.
Sumgayit have added Moumini to a group of six new signings aimed at revitalising their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. The defender made 16 appearances last season for Ayema, scoring once and contributing two assists evidence of his potential to influence from the back.
Editorial
We consider this move a thoughtful leap forward for both player and club. For Moumini, transitioning to European football via Azerbaijan presents a strategic pathway one built not on hype but on tangible progression and exposure to continental standards.
His choice to join Sumgayit over other suitors demonstrates maturity. The project-driven approach, guided by leadership in Riad Rafiyev, gives confidence to young talents seeking growth in stable environments. With a three-year deal in place, he now has time to adapt, improve, and showcase his value.
For FK Sumgayit, investing in Moumini reflects ambition—soaring beyond regional comfort and embracing global football’s next breed. Recruiting a player with international caps at age 20 signals strategic recruitment, balancing immediate defensive needs with long-term potential.
This move also resonates for African football: the path abroad need not always originate from elite leagues.
Azerbaijan Premier League side FK Sumgayit have officially confirmed the signing of Abdoul Rachid Moumini, the 20 year old right back from Ayema FC in Benin, on a three year contract. This marks his first professional move outside his home country.
Moumini emerged at Ayema FC as a standout performer, earning national team call ups for Benin and attracting interest from European clubs. His decision to join Sumgayit was influenced by the club’s ambitious project under president Riad Rafiyev, who convinced him of the developmental vision offered at the Azerbaijani outfit.
Sumgayit have added Moumini to a group of six new signings aimed at revitalising their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. The defender made 16 appearances last season for Ayema, scoring once and contributing two assists evidence of his potential to influence from the back.
Editorial
We consider this move a thoughtful leap forward for both player and club. For Moumini, transitioning to European football via Azerbaijan presents a strategic pathway one built not on hype but on tangible progression and exposure to continental standards.
His choice to join Sumgayit over other suitors demonstrates maturity. The project-driven approach, guided by leadership in Riad Rafiyev, gives confidence to young talents seeking growth in stable environments. With a three-year deal in place, he now has time to adapt, improve, and showcase his value.
For FK Sumgayit, investing in Moumini reflects ambition—soaring beyond regional comfort and embracing global football’s next breed. Recruiting a player with international caps at age 20 signals strategic recruitment, balancing immediate defensive needs with long-term potential.
This move also resonates for African football: the path abroad need not always originate from elite leagues.