City in Focus | Adeteye Gbadehan settling in well with the Bluebirds

Since joining City over the summer, it’s been a positive start to life in the Welsh capital for Adeteye Gbadehan.

The midfielder began his Bluebirds career by gaining experience during pre-season with both the U21s and the First Team. 

Gbadehan featured in pre-season fixtures against Kidderminster Harriers and K.V. Kortrijk, as well as being on the bench against Reading and Bristol Rovers.

Playing for Darren Purse’s U21s side also provided further experience of playing against men’s teams in preparation for the 2024/25 campaign.

“It’s been a great experience for me,” Adeteye began. “All the coaches, both with the First Team and with the U21s have been very helpful with my development, which has been really exciting. 

“All the players have been very welcoming and it has been great to get to know them. Being the only American in the U21s team, I’m different, but the squad have really welcomed me into the Club. They have shown me what Cardiff City is about and what it means to play for the Club. 

“In pre-season, the coaches told me to express myself against men’s teams and playing alongside professional players, it was just about learning and improving, because I want to get to the top of my game as soon as possible. 

“It’s incredible for me. All the First Team players have been really helpful, like JC, Rallsy, and Ethan Horvath, they have really taken me under their wing and they make sure that I’m doing ok, whether it’s on or off the pitch.”

The American central-midfielder has also gained a taste of domestic cup action in the Nathaniel MG Cup. 

Purse’s side have claimed wins over Afan Lido and Pontypridd United, with a clash against Merthyr Town to come in the next round.

Adeteye continued: “It has been a really fun experience. I love those games where there is something on the line. Obviously, the league games mean a lot to us, but in those cup matches, we want to get to the next round. Playing under the lights against men’s teams is a great experience for us.

“We’re just looking to kick on in the competition. Our goal is to go as far as we can. As long as we keep working hard and playing the right way, I think it’s possible that we can do it. Hopefully, in the next round against Merthyr, we can keep advancing.”

Adeteye continued to gain experience with the Bluebirds, as he started in a Carabao Cup clash against Southampton to make his professional debut. 

“It has been a dream for me for a long time,” he added. “To do it at Cardiff City Stadium was amazing. On a personal note for me, to play against a Premier League club in Southampton, it was a great night and especially with my family in the crowd. 

“It’s a moment that’s really difficult to describe. I got chills when I was walking out onto the pitch. You see the crowd and hear them making noise, I was really happy to be involved. 

“I just want to keep pushing on. As long as I can keep improving and impressing the coaches, then hopefully, I can keep building those experiences.”