Ovie Ejaria Uses LinkedIn to Find New Club After Leaving Real Oviedo

Former Liverpool and Rangers midfielder Ovie Ejaria has taken an uncommon route in his search for a new team by turning to the professional networking site LinkedIn. Now 28 and a free agent, he is looking for opportunities after parting ways with Spanish side Real Oviedo.

Free Agent on the Market

Ejaria’s recent spell at Real Oviedo saw him make just eight appearances in La Liga last season before the club was relegated from Spain's top division. With his contract expired, he has reached out publicly to clubs, leveraging his career history that includes time at Liverpool, Sunderland, Rangers, and Reading.

Versatility Highlighted in Appeal

In a LinkedIn post, Ejaria emphasized his ability to play multiple roles across midfield and attack, including central midfield positions numbered 6, 8, and 10, as well as left winger. He wrote: "I'm currently a free agent and looking for the right opportunity. If there’s a chance or you know of a club looking for a midfielder (6, 8 & 10) or someone who can play as a left winger, please feel free to DM me."

Steven Gerrard Reflects on Ejaria’s Time at Rangers

Ejaria, who still qualifies to represent Nigeria internationally, had a loan spell at Rangers during the 2018-19 season under then-manager Steven Gerrard. The loan ended early when Ejaria chose to return to Liverpool in December 2018, a move that reportedly frustrated the club.

Gerrard expressed disappointment over the departure, telling the Glasgow Times: "Am I disappointed he’s gone? Yes. Do I think it’s the right decision? No, because I think he had an incredible opportunity here."

During that period, Gerrard praised Ejaria’s performances, especially in a Europa League playoff against FC Ufa. After a 1-0 win at Ibrox, Ejaria scored an early goal in Russia helping secure a 1-1 draw and group-stage qualification. Gerrard remarked to Rangers TV: "I thought he was magnificent and I think that is his strongest 90 minutes that he has given us so far."

He added: "We have seen a lot of flashes and some good halves, but that was his first real excellent performance against a strong team. I thought he was excellent from start to finish."

Ready for a Fresh Start

As the 2026-27 football season kicks off across Europe, Ejaria aims to land a new contract. His free-agent status allows him to join clubs even outside traditional transfer windows. With experience in England, Scotland, and Spain, he hopes to quickly get back into professional football.