The Super Eagles forward is now without a club after 11 games this season following his departure from the most successful club in Serbia
Nigerian international Peter Olayinka has officially parted ways with Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade, bringing an abrupt end to his stint just 11 matches into the 2025–26 season, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 29-year-old forward, who joined the former European champions from Slavia Prague in 2023, requested to leave the club in search of a “new challenge.”
His departure was confirmed on Wednesday through an official club statement published on Red Star’s website and social media platforms.
“Football Club Crvena Zvezda informs the public that it has mutually terminated its cooperation with Peter Olayinka, with mutual understanding and respect,” the statement reads.
“Peter expressed his desire to seek a new challenge in his career, and the club respected his wish, expressing gratitude for his professionalism, dedication, and contribution to our team during his time here.
“Crvena zvezda thanks Olayinka for everything he has done in the red-and-white jersey and wishes him much success, good health, and happiness in the continuation of his career. Thank you, Peter – and good luck!”
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Peter Olayinka: Difficult spell in Belgrade for the Super Eagles star
Olayinka’s time in Belgrade started with optimism but quickly turned frustrating.
Despite a promising record of 14 goals during his stay, the Nigerian found himself increasingly sidelined in recent months. His limited minutes and inability to cement a starting role appear to have influenced his decision to part ways with the club.
The winger, known for his tireless work rate and sharp attacking instincts, had hoped to raise his level in Serbia after a productive four-year spell at Slavia Prague, where he became a fan favourite and a consistent performer in the Czech league and European competitions.
However, the move to Red Star, one of Eastern Europe’s most decorated clubs, did not produce the expected results. Red Star, who famously won the European Cup and Intercontinental Cup in 1991, currently lead the Serbian SuperLiga but have undergone several squad rotations as they balance domestic and continental ambitions.
Career crossroads
Olayinka now enters free agency and is eligible to join a new club outside the transfer window.
Having played in Belgium, Cyprus, Albania, and the Czech Republic, the forward is no stranger to adapting to new environments, a quality that could once again serve him well as he seeks his next opportunity.
He began his European career with Bylis in Albania before spells at Yenicami, Skënderbeu, Gent, Dukla Prague, and Zulte Waregem. His best years arguably came at Slavia Prague, where he helped the club dominate the Czech First League and reach the Europa League quarter-finals.
Internationally, Olayinka made his Nigeria debut as a late substitute in a 1–1 friendly draw against Brazil in Singapore in 2019. He has since earned four caps for the Super Eagles, though he remains on the fringes of the national team setup.