Terem Moffi became only one of a handful of players to have featured in Lithuania and go on to a major league like Ligue 1 when Thursday he completed an eight million Euros transfer to Lorient.
The 21-year-old striker is also the only player from the Lithuanian league to make it to a major league in a calendar year.
He said his dream to play at the top drove him.
“I didn’t achieve that because I’m a super good player,” Moffi maintained.
“Definitely not. Hard work, faith and the pursuit of a dream helped me get to Ligue 1.
“Don’t be afraid to dream – I’m an example that anything is possible.
“Yes, I know I had the potential to climb up here. But I don’t promise to stop now. Five goals in nine matches in Belgium is history. I have to show the same level in France. Only this would allow me to achieve my new dreams.”
He said he still holds fond memories of Lithuania.
“At the same time, I want to emphasise that I will never forget Lithuania,” he remarked.
“I know that this season is not going well for Riteriai, but I have no doubt that this is an exception to the rule. I wish you my friends all the best.”
He shone at Riteriai FK last year, before he moved earlier this year to the Belgian club KV Kortrijk, where he scored on his debut and has now netted five goals in nine league games.
Such statistics did not go unnoticed. Back in July, Istanbul’s Galatasaray, Glasgow’s Rangers, Saint-Etienne and Stade Brest showed great interest.
However, no deal was made with any of these teams.
“I don’t think about what could have been because I’m where I need to be,” Moffi said.
He further said he cannot be called a star yet because he has not achieved anything of note yet.
“It is a little too early for such epithets. When I play for PSG, Barcelona or Manchester United, it will be possible to say I am a star,” he said.
“When will this happen? With God’s help, I hope soon.”
However, the Nigerian striker will in the meantime have to prove his worth at Lorient, who are currently 16th on the table.
“It is a great honour for me to wear a Lorient shirt and play in France,” he began.
“I’ve worked hard in recent seasons to get this opportunity. I look forward to making my debut at Lorient and making my contribution here.”
He continued: “I have been waiting for this moment for a long time, so I am in cloud nine.
“Frankly, it’s very hard for me to explain how I feel, because that’s probably how the happiest people in the world feel.
“I had a medical on Wednesday, signed a contract on Thursday, and now I have started training with the club. I believe that I will succeed.”
On Sunday, Lorient will face FC Metz and their new signing could make his debut.
“I don’t really want to speculate on whether I will make my debut or not, because it’s a coach’s decision. I can say on my own that I will be ready,” said the young sharp shooter.
