AFC Bournemouth winger Jordon Ibe will leave the Cherries on July 1st, according to a report by Sky Sports. This move will take place even if the season has yet to be completed. The winger joined from Liverpool in 2016 for £16 million and has struggled. In addition, he also faces potential disciplinary action for allegedly breaking COVID-19 quarantine rules.
Jordon Ibe Will Leave Bournemouth
Jordon Ibe’s Struggles
Big things were expected from Jordon Ibe when he joined Bournemouth in 2016. Regular game time was seen as key in him realizing his potential. Anfield’s faithful had even dubbed him as the next “Raheem Sterling.”
But he has not replicated Sterling’s success. Instead, Ibe has often looked lost on the pitch and rarely contributed to Bournemouth’s success. He has scored only three goals in 44 Premier League appearances.
His signing, along with that of Dominic Solanke, is often pointed to as proof of Bournemouth’s failure in the transfer market and inability to develop as a club.
Bournemouth has enjoyed several successful seasons in the top flight. But they have struggled this season – the Cherries are currently in the bottom three.
Ibe’s departure is not a surprise. He has only made two appearances in the Premier League this season. It is doubtful that he would help Bournemouth escape the regulation zone.
Quarantine Troubles
Ibe has also had his troubles off the pitch. The former Liverpool man posted a picture of himself getting a haircut on Instagram.
Hairdressers must remain closed and people cannot have visitors at their homes in the UK during the quarantine.
Ibe has since deleted the post and Bournemouth have confirmed they have launched an internal investigation. Ibe is expected to face disciplinary action.
For his part, the midfielder has apologized.
“I didn’t think it through and I apologize. I made sure to wear protective equipment but I didn’t realize it was in breach of the guidelines,” the winger said.
What’s Next?
After failing to impress at both Liverpool and Bournemouth, Ibe will struggle to find another Premier League club willing to take him.
The logical next step for him is a move to the Championship or to League One. However, his wages will be smaller than at Bournemouth. Clubs may also not want to take a risk on Ibe and many face financial difficulties due to COVID-19.
After making his debut at 15-years-old in the Football League, everything has gone downhill for Jordon Ibe.
But he still has time to turn his career around. The winger is only 24-years-old and has all the tools to be a top-level player.
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