This post is also available in:
العربية
Yesterday, Al-Futowa Sports Club in Deir Ezzor Governorate announced the official signing of player Bahjat Jawdat al-Nayef, nicknamed “Barnoos,” a move that received widespread attention in local sports circles.
In this context, DeirEzzor24 Network conducted a special interview with the player, whom we previously met years ago while he was in Turkey. Today, we return to recount a new chapter in his inspiring sporting career.
Bahjat, the ambitious young man, left Syria to escape the brutality of the Assad regime and Daesh, carrying with him a dream that never faded: to become a professional football player.
Bahçet talks about his beginnings, saying:
“I arrived in Urfa when I was fourteen years old. I began training with the Fırat Club, which participated in important local tournaments, and played in the youth team and then the first team. During that period, I received offers from clubs such as Büyükşehir, Karakoy Spor, and Hatayspor, but paperwork issues prevented me from joining any of them.”
“We later participated in a major football tournament held in Antakya with 24 teams participating, representing Urfa, and we managed to take first place. I was also awarded the best player award among 425 players, amidst the attention of Turkish international players. I attracted significant attention during that tournament.”
“About 15 days after the end of the tournament, Osmli Spor contacted me and invited me to take a test, which I passed successfully. I then moved to Ankara to complete the procedures, where the club’s management promised me exceptional Turkish citizenship. But suddenly, I received direct threats from people connected to the Syrian regime, stating, ‘If you sign for this club, your family will be arrested in Syria.’ I was forced to return to Urfa under intense pressure.”
“After consulting with my father, I decided to leave Turkey permanently and traveled to the UAE, where I played for Ittihad Kalba in the Professional League. I received offers from Al Dhaid, a Sharjah-based club, and Al Dhafra, both first division clubs. However, Emirati law required a Syrian player to reside in the country for five years to be able to play in the first division, which prevented me from joining them.”
“After the fall of the former Assad regime, my dream of playing for a Syrian club returned. Mr. Ahmed Abu Aloush contacted me, and from there, I began my first steps back home through Al-Fotuwa Club. I signed a professional contract with the club, and I hope to live up to the expectations of the management and the beloved fans.”
Today, Bernous returns to his hometown through Al-Fotuwa Club, writing a new chapter in his football career. He is being warmly welcomed by the fans of Deir Ezzor and the Blue Club, who see him as a model of determination, defiance, and hope.
