Team

HSV sign winger Philip Otele

The 26-year-old Nigerian joins HSV on loan from FC Basel until the end of the season. Claus Costa: “Philip is a winger in the purest sense.”

Hamburger SV have added a further attacking option shortly before the transfer window closes. Winger Philip Otele has joined HSV on loan from FC Basel until the end of the season. The 26-year-old Nigerian will wear the number 27 shirt.

“Bringing in Philip at the end of the transfer window gives us another player who adds variety and depth to our attack,” said HSV board member Eric Huwer, referring to the fourth winter signing after Damion Downs, Sander Tangvik and Albert Grönbaek. “Claus and his team have rounded off a very busy transfer period, during which we were able to fill four key positions and, at the same time, shape the squad exactly as we wanted.”

Sporting director Claus Costa outlined Otele’s profile: “Philip is a winger in the purest sense. He brings flair and a real goal threat, plays with courage on the ball and often looks to take defenders on and drive directly towards goal with his dribbling. He’s also fully fit and has been playing regular football recently. Philip has taken a unique path in his career and had to work hard for every step. He’s now really looking forward to his next challenge in the Bundesliga, and we’re delighted that he’s chosen HSV.”

26 goal involvements in a year at Basel

Philip Porwei Otele was born on 15th April 1999 in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. As a teenager, he moved to England, where his football journey began in the amateur game. After spells as a professional in Lithuania, Romania and the United Arab Emirates, he joined Swiss side FC Basel a year ago. There, he recorded 18 goals and eight assists in 53 competitive appearances. In the current season alone, he has already been involved in 13 goals across 32 competitive matches, and featured for 2,419 minutes, making him one of Basel’s most-used players.

Speaking about his move to HSV, the new signing said: “This is a really proud moment for me. I didn’t need much convincing – HSV and the Volksparkstadion are massive. The support from the fans is incredible. I can’t wait to get started.”

Moin and welcome to Hamburg, Philip!