Freetown, 25 June 2025 – Promising Sierra Leonean defender, Juma Bah, has sealed a season-long loan move to French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice for the 2025/26 campaign.
The 19-year-old centre-back, who joined Premier League giants Manchester City in January this year, spent the latter part of last season on loan at RC Lens, where he impressed with 10 appearances in France’s top flight.
Bah’s return to Ligue 1 comes amid stiff competition for places at Manchester City, with manager Pep Guardiola well-stocked in central defence following the acquisitions of Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis, and the return to fitness of Nathan Aké and Manuel Akanji
Sources close to the deal say Olympique Lyonnais also expressed interest in securing Bah’s services, but the teenager ultimately opted for a move to the Riviera-based club, OGC Nice — a side that is aiming to qualify for the UEFA Champions League group stages after finishing fourth in Ligue 1 last season.
While Bah remains tied to a long-term contract at the Etihad Stadium, the loan move is seen as a vital step in his development, offering him regular first-team football and exposure on the European stage.
The Freetown-born defender is considered one of Sierra Leone’s most promising exports and will be hoping to use the upcoming season to showcase his talent and continue his rise in European football.
