In 2015, Raheem Sterling left Liverpool to join Manchester City for £50 million. This departure prompted Liverpool to seek a replacement for the winger, and they turned to their academy product, Jordan Ibe. He was gradually brought in to fill Sterling’s shoes, receiving more starting opportunities.
Sterling’s sale undoubtedly hit Liverpool hard, led by Brendan Rodgers at the start of the 2015/16 season. In the previous campaign, the English international had contributed 15 goals to the Premier League. Sterling had been the sole ray of hope in attack due to poor form from Rickie Lambert and Mario Balotelli, while Daniel Sturridge was plagued by injuries.
Liverpool’s plan was simple: to promote Jordan Ibe, who had impressed for the club’s academy. He returned to Anfield in January 2015 after a successful loan spell at Derby County, but Brendan Rodgers chose not to utilize him in the attack. Instead, the young player was burdened with more defensive duties as Liverpool played with a formation featuring three central defenders.
Despite playing in an atypical role, Jordan began to win over the fans. The English teenager was predicted to have a bright future in Liverpool’s first team.
Ten years ago, there was certainly much talk about Jordan Ibe. It was forecasted that he would develop his qualities to the extent of earning a spot in England’s squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. John Aldridge was among those who predicted a bright future for Ibe:
“Raheem is obviously very talented, but Liverpool has a great replacement in Ibe. I’ve watched Jordan since he was 15. He’s very good and has tremendous potential.”
The 2015/16 season started as a nightmare for Liverpool. Brendan Rodgers was sacked as early as October, and Jurgen Klopp replaced him. The German coach changed the formation, leaving no room for Jordan Ibe on the field. He was mainly used in Europa League matches.
Just 12 months after receiving praise from John Aldridge, the young footballer moved to Bournemouth to gain playing experience. Suddenly, Ibe found himself unwanted as Bournemouth offered £15 million—a deal Liverpool couldn’t refuse.
The issues with finishing plagued Ibe from Liverpool to Bournemouth. Despite playing 92 games for his new team, he only scored 5 goals. He gradually lost his starting spot. Ibe played only two matches during the 2019/20 season, when his native Liverpool became champions for the first time in 30 years.
In the summer of 2020, the former England youth international joined Derby County as a free agent, but his career didn’t take an upward trajectory; quite the opposite. He was practically forgotten, having played only one match for “The Rams”.
In early 2021, he turned to his social media followers. In an emotional post, Ibe admitted that he had been battling depression for years. He acknowledged all the messages and support, stating that times were tough during the pandemic. He expressed gratitude for the full support of his family and Derby County, vowing to bounce back, giving his all not only for his family and daughter but also for himself.
Two days ago, Ibe finally returned to football. He made his debut in England’s fifth division. The 28-year-old winger came off the bench for Ebbsfleet in their 0-0 draw against Oldham. Ibe has been with the club since October, when he arrived as a free agent, but only now has he made his debut. Prior to this, he was part of the Turkish side Adanaspor.
Ebbsfleet is currently in 22nd place in the standings, one point away from the safety zone. A win against Chesterfield during the week could see the team move out of the relegation zone.
