Serbian giants Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) have officially confirmed the departure of Nigerian forward Peter Olayinka, following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.
The club made the announcement via its official social media channels earlier this week, citing Olayinka’s decision to “seek a new challenge” as the key reason for the separation.
Official Club Statement:
“The Crvena Zvezda football club informs the public that it has mutually terminated its cooperation with Peter Olayinka, with mutual understanding and respect.
Peter expressed his desire to seek a new challenge in his career, and the club accommodated him, with gratitude for his professional attitude, dedication, and contribution to our team in the previous period.
Crvena Zvezda thanks Olayinka for everything he has done in the red and white jersey and wishes him much success, health, and happiness in the continuation of his career. Thank you, Peter, and good luck.”
A Mixed Spell in Serbia
Olayinka joined Red Star in the summer of 2023 as a free agent after a successful stint at Slavia Prague, where he made a name for himself with his work rate, pressing ability, and leadership.
During his time in Belgrade, the 28-year-old forward made 65 appearances, scoring 15 goals and providing 10 assists, while helping the club to a domestic double, the Serbian SuperLiga and Serbian Cup titles, in the 2023–24 season.
However, injuries plagued much of his spell. Olayinka suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon that sidelined him for over half of last season, causing him to miss 35 matches.
This season, he featured only six times, starting just two matches, as he struggled to regain full fitness and reclaim a regular spot in the squad.
Looking Ahead
With his chapter at Red Star now closed, Olayinka is expected to seek a new opportunity elsewhere in Europe or the Middle East, as he looks to reignite the form that once made him one of the most consistent Nigerian forwards in European football.
At his peak with Slavia Prague, Olayinka was a crucial part of the team’s domestic dominance and strong UEFA Europa League runs, earning admiration for his tactical intelligence, pressing energy, and versatility across the front line.
As he begins the next phase of his career, Nigerian fans will be hoping the forward rediscovers that spark and potentially plays his way back into national team contention.
