West Ham United is delighted to announce that Academy defender Rayan Oyebade has signed his first professional contract with the Club.

A north London native, Oyebade joined West Ham United as a schoolboy in the Under-14 age group. The 17-year-old spent a decade playing grassroots football with Broadwater Farm and Focus Football before catching the attention of West Ham United’s Academy scouts. Following a successful trial at Chadwell Heath in 2021, the promising centre-half never looked back. Just a year later, he made his junior international debut for England Under-15s.

A Dream Come True

"Signing my first professional contract means the world to me, my family, and everyone who has supported me on this journey. I’m incredibly grateful," Oyebade said.

"I joined the Academy relatively late compared to other players, and it was initially challenging to keep up technically. However, with hard work, I gradually caught up. Now, having signed my professional contract, I’m absolutely delighted."

After signing scholarship terms in 2023, Oyebade endured a challenging first year, with injuries hindering his progress. A hamstring tear, followed by an ankle injury, sidelined him for a total of eight months. While his peers signed professional deals, he remained determined, working tirelessly to regain full fitness and prove that West Ham United was where he belonged.

"My first year as a scholar was difficult due to injuries. It’s tough when you’re trying to make an impression and show you’ve got what it takes to turn professional. But I kept my head down and worked hard. It was such a relief when I found out about my first contract. I know there’s still plenty of work to do, but this is just the beginning."

A Leader on the Pitch

Now in his second year, Oyebade has captained the Under-18s on six occasions this season and played a key role in helping Lauris Coggin’s side reach their first-ever Premier League Cup final.

"Recently, I’ve had the privilege of captaining the Under-18s and leading the team out, which has been a huge honour," he said. "I’m grateful to the coaches for placing their trust in me. It’s an exciting time for the squad. Since joining West Ham at Under-14 level, this is my first cup final, so I’m really looking forward to it!"

Praise from the Academy

At his contract signing, West Ham United Academy Manager Kenny Brown commended Oyebade’s resilience in overcoming injury setbacks, expressing confidence in his potential to progress to the next level.

"Rayan has applied himself superbly since joining at Under-14 level. Coming from grassroots football, he showed significant potential when he arrived at Chadwell Heath. He has since earned a scholarship and now a professional contract, which we are absolutely delighted about.

"He has faced considerable adversity through injuries, but he has emerged stronger—both mentally and physically.

"Off the pitch, Rayan is humble and unassuming. On it, he is consistent and provides the team with excellent balance as a left-sided defender. We are fully confident that, as he transitions to Rush Green with the Under-21s, he will adapt extremely well.

"He has captained the Under-18s on multiple occasions because he leads by example. He has earned the respect of his teammates and staff, and everyone is thrilled that he has committed his future to the Club.

"Every day, Rayan strives to improve. He applies himself just as much in his education and the gym as he does in training and matches. He is a fantastic young player to have around, and we are looking forward to a bright future with him."

Everyone at West Ham United extends their congratulations to Rayan on signing his first professional contract and wishes him every success in Claret and Blue.