Player Profile: Ipswich Town – Everything You Need to Know About Chuba Akpom

Player Profile: Ipswich Town – Everything You Need to Know About Chuba Akpom

 

 

Versatile forward Chuba Akpom has joined Ipswich Town on loan from Dutch giants Ajax, giving Kieran McKenna another exciting option in attack. The 28-year-old’s arrival at Portman Road adds depth, creativity, and proven goal-scoring ability as the Blues aim to strengthen their push in the Championship. Here’s a closer look at his career so far.

Early Career and Arsenal Roots

 

Born in Canning Town, London, Akpom joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of six. Highly rated from a young age, he progressed quickly through the youth ranks and made his senior debut for the Gunners in September 2013 in a League Cup tie against West Bromwich Albion. Despite his early promise, regular first-team opportunities were hard to come by, and he spent much of his time at Arsenal out on loan.

Loan Spells and Gaining Experience

 

During his time at the Emirates, Akpom gained valuable experience through multiple loan moves. He featured for Brentford, Coventry City, Nottingham Forest, Hull City, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Sint-Truiden in Belgium. These stints helped him develop versatility, playing both as a central striker and in wide attacking roles, though he was still searching for a club where he could consistently showcase his scoring touch.

 

Breakthrough in Greece

 

Akpom’s career took a major turn in 2018 when he signed for Greek side PAOK Salonika. It was in Thessaloniki that he began to truly fulfil his potential. He became a key figure in PAOK’s attack, winning the Greek Super League and Greek Cup double in his first season. His physicality, work rate, and ability to link play made him a fan favourite, and he scored crucial goals in domestic and European competitions.

 

Return to England and Championship Success

 

In 2020, Akpom returned to England with Middlesbrough. After a steady first campaign, he was loaned back to PAOK for a season before returning to the Riverside for the 2022/23 season — a decision that proved pivotal. Under Michael Carrick, Akpom enjoyed the best form of his career, finishing as the Championship’s top scorer with 28 goals. His performances earned him the EFL Championship Player of the Year award and interest from clubs across Europe.

 

 

Move to Ajax

 

In the summer of 2023, Akpom secured a high-profile transfer to Ajax. The move offered a chance to test himself in the Eredivisie and European competitions. While he showed flashes of his ability in the Netherlands, including some important goals, he struggled for consistent minutes, leading to his loan move to Ipswich Town in search of regular football.

What He Brings to Ipswich

 

Akpom’s arrival gives McKenna a forward with pace, strength, and intelligent movement. He can operate as a lone striker, in a front two, or drifting in from wide areas — offering tactical flexibility. His Championship experience and proven goal-scoring record could be a decisive factor in Ipswich’s push for promotion.

 

At 28, Akpom is entering his prime years. If he can replicate his Middlesbrough form, Ipswich fans could be in for an exciting season with a striker capable of turning tight games in their favour.

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