Jay Enem: “I want to prove myself as a great striker”

Dutch striker Jay Enem, 19, arrived at Venezia FC Primavera in the summer of 2022. After being halted by an injury at the start of the season, Enem quickly redeemed himself, scoring three goals in his four appearances with coach Soncin's side, so much so that he was called up to make his first-team debut on Giornata 21 of the 2022/23 Serie B season. Having emerged from the youth ranks of Ajax, the centre forward recounts the start of his professional career.

“I realised I wanted to be a professional footballer from an early age. My father was always a big enthusiast, and I started playing at the age of four: since then, I haven't stopped. The move to Italy is my first taste of an international career, and I feel great here. I think moving to a different country is of great benefit to a player's career, it allows you to broaden your horizons.

Despite a difficult start because of my injury, now that I've recovered I really want to show what I'm capable of, scoring as much as I can. Making my debut in Serie B was very exciting, and training with the rest of the first team was stimulating. Signing the contract with Venezia last summer marked the official start of my career: an unforgettable moment.

My journey has just begun, but I want to become a great striker. I am inspired by Didier Drogba, whom I have admired since I was a child, and by Victor Osimhen: just like me, he is half Nigerian and plays in Italy, I appreciate his work ethic. Being able to play in a multicultural team is a great privilege, it allows me to analyse different mentalities and perspectives that bring excellent results, when put to good use within the team.”