Despite standing out in the academy until turning 16 and being assured of first-team opportunities if he remained at Ibrox, Mebude was convinced that joining Manchester City’s academy was the right choice. Although the move to Man City could delay his impact in senior football, he was determined it was the best decision for his development.
Dire Mebude said, “But at the end of the day, it’s my own decision, and me and my family came to a decision that it would be the best for me. I think what a lot of people miss, because a lot of people say you shouldn’t go down south when you’re young because it’s going to be really difficult, but for a young player, it’s just an incredible environment to improve yourself. I mean, if it’s a team as big as Man City, there’s no way you can really say no to that. As long as you put your mind to it, you’re always getting better. I think that has set me up the best for my career. It came as quite a shock when I heard they were interested in me. But when I heard that they wanted to sign me, it was like a no-brainer at that point, to be honest. I just couldn’t hold my excitement, I just wanted to get there as soon as possible.”
Mebude excelled at City Under-18s and had the opportunity to train with Pep Guardiola and the first team, where Raheem Sterling was among those who helped him improve. His first year, though educational, included time on loan with Bristol City. Currently, Mebude has been involved in eight of Westerlo’s ten league games this season, scoring two goals and providing an assist. Even though his move south might have raised questions in Scotland, Mebude, now aiming to impress with Scotland Under-21s, has no regrets about his decision.
