Ghanaian midfielder Stephen Bolma to leave IFK Norrkoping

Ghanaian midfielder Stephen Bolma will leave Swedish club IFK Norrkoping at the end of the season after the club decided against offering him a contract extension.

The 21-year-old’s current deal expires this winter, bringing his spell at the Swedish side to an end after a difficult period largely disrupted by persistent injury problems.

Bolma joined Norrkoping from Ghana’s Attram De Visser Academy ahead of the 2023 season, arriving with hopes of establishing himself in European football.

However, his development has been hampered by recurring fitness concerns, limiting his opportunities to make an impact in the first team.

The Ghanaian has managed just nine competitive appearances for the senior side during his time at the club, scoring one goal. He has not featured in the Swedish Super League this season.

Reacting to the decision, Bolma admitted he was disappointed but acknowledged that his departure had become increasingly likely given his circumstances.

“It's sad and tough... But, it is what it is. It's pretty much expected because of my situation. I'm sad, but I have to keep believing and keep fighting,” he said in a statement published on the club’s website.

Norrkoping sporting director Henrik Jurelius praised the midfielder’s determination to recover from his injuries and insisted the club had supported him throughout his difficult spell.

“Stephen has fought hard and done everything he could over a long period to get back. We have supported him in every way we could and will of course continue to do so all the way,” Jurelius said.

According to Swedish outlet NT-sporten, the club’s management has decided to part ways with the Ghanaian when his contract expires.

Bolma will now have to consider his next career move as he looks to overcome his injury setbacks and revive his playing career.

Despite the disappointing end to his time in Sweden, the midfielder will hope to secure a fresh opportunity elsewhere and demonstrate the potential that prompted his move to Europe in 2023.