Semi Ajayi is an England-born professional footballer, who currently plies his trade as a center back for EFL Championship side West Bromwich Albion and the Nigeria national team.

Ajayi has played all of his career-one marked by persistence, patience and breakthrough moments-to this point in England, rising through the ranks at different lower league sides before eventually making it to the Premier League with his current club West Bromwich Albion. Although the Baggies are currently an English second tier side, Ajayi remains a key part of their squad.

In this article, Footynaija.com brings you all you need to know about the English-Nigerian defender.

Biography

Born in London to Nigerian parents on November 9, 1993, Oluwasemilogo Adesewo Ibidapo “Semi” Ajayi began his journey at Charlton Athletic, progressing through their academy and earning a professional contract in 2012.

Although he never featured for Charlton’s senior team, his potential earned him a move to Arsenal in 2013. There, he impressed in the youth setup and regularly made the bench for the senior side but was unable to make a competitive debut.

Ajayi’s quest for regular football led him to Cardiff City, followed by loan spells at AFC Wimbledon and Crewe Alexandra, where he gained valuable experience. His breakthrough came at Rotherham United, becoming a key player and earning promotion. In 2019, he joined West Bromwich Albion, establishing himself in the Premier League and scoring memorably at Anfield. His journey reflects determination and a steady climb through English football.

On the international scene, Nigeria first recognized Semi Ajayi when it called him up to the U20 squad for the Toulon Tournament in May 2013. He made his debut in a 1–1 draw against Belgium and featured in subsequent matches against Portugal and Brazil. Reflecting on the experience, Ajayi expressed pride in representing Nigeria at youth level.

His senior debut came five years later in August 2018, during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, describing the call-up as a “dream” moment. Ajayi came on as a substitute in the match against Seychelles. In December 2023, he was selected for Nigeria’s 25-man squad for the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire. Demonstrating his importance to the team, he played every minute of Nigeria’s seven matches, helping the Super Eagles reach the final and finish as runners-up.

Semi Ajayi’s Career Stats

Despite signing his first professional contract back in 2012 with Charlton Athletic, Semi Ajayi’s career didn’t really take off until 2017 when he signed for EFL Championship based Rotherham United. The 31-year-old has amassed 339 appearances for club and country, with 29 goals and 6 assists to his name.

Semi Ajayi’s Salary and Net Worth

Currently earning £16,500 per week at West Bromwich Albion, amounting to an impressive £858,000 annually, Semi Ajayi has seen a remarkable rise in earnings compared to his time at Rotherham United, where he earned just £2,600 per week. The significant wage increase highlights the strides he has made in his career, both in performance and professional value.

According to Salary Sport, the 31-year-old’s net worth is estimated at £4.4 million. At the time of writing, the West Bromwich Albion defender has no known ambassadorial roles or kit sponsors.

Semi Ajayi’s Parents and Siblings

Semi Ajayi’s mother Dayo was born in the UK but moved back to Nigeria where she met his father Biyi. Both parents did a lot to support Semi and his brother Fikayo in the earlier days of their football journey. Biyi used to take the boys to play football about six times a week back then.

Unfortunately, Fikayo, who was also considered a promising talent, suffered a broken leg at the age of 16 and that significantly hindered his progress and set him back in his development.

Semi Ajayi’s Wife

When it comes to his personal life, Semi Ajayi maintains a low profile. The West Brom defender appears to be single, as there are no public indications of a romantic relationship. He has never shared any photos or details about a partner on social media, nor has he been linked to any relationship controversies. As of now, his relationship status remains private and undisclosed.

Semi Ajayi’s FC 25 Ratings

Semi Ajayi’s overall player rating is 70 as per EA SPORTS FC 25, reflecting his strengths as a commanding centre-back for West Bromwich Albion and the Nigerian national team. Ajayi’s standard card highlights his defensive capabilities:

Pace: 69 (Acceleration 61, Sprint Speed 76)

Defending: 69 (Interceptions 66, Defensive Awareness 70, Standing Tackle 68, Sliding Tackle 66)

Physicality: 81 (Jumping 83, Strength 83, Stamina 79, Aggression 76)

Dribbling: 59 (Ball Control 61, Composure 68)

Passing: 47 (Short Pass 57, Long Pass 54)