The midfielder came into the spotlight at the 2019 FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil, where he captained the Golden Eaglets and shone in midfield.
His performances attracted interest from top European clubs, but it was Salzburg who signed him from Lagos-based Collins Edwin Sports Club.
Unfortunately, reality proved harsh as injuries slowed his progress and consistent playing time was hard to find. Loan moves to TSV Hartberg, FC Liefering, Wolfsberger AC, and Fredrikstad gave him chances, yet stability remained elusive.
Now 23, Tijani is enjoying football once more in the Czech Republic’s top division. Looking back on his struggles in Wals-Siezenheim, he admits it was a difficult time, but he sees it as a stepping stone that made him stronger and even more determined to succeed.
"I see it as part of life and part of my journey as a footballer. At Salzburg, I wasn’t really able to show my full quality. I don’t want to give excuses, but the truth is that injury played a big role," he told Flashscore in an exclusive interview.
"Getting injured slowed me down at a crucial time, and in a club like Salzburg, there is very little room to wait. It is a place where young talents are constantly developing and being promoted, whether to the first team or the second team.
"Competition is intense, and if you are out for a while, others quickly step in and take their chance. That is simply how the club operates, and they have to keep moving forward. I believe that is what happened in my case.
"However, I don’t want to hide behind that experience or use it as a reason for not succeeding there. Football, like life, comes with setbacks and challenges, and not every chapter goes the way you hope.
"What matters most is learning from it, staying strong mentally, and continuing to work hard. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and that experience has helped shape me into a better and stronger player."
'The Czech League deserves more respect'
After completing a loan spell with Norwegian side Fredrikstad, Tijani took a new step in his career, joining Chance Liga side Dukla Prague in June 2025 on a multi-year contract as a free agent.
His arrival increased the number of Africans at Stadion Juliska to four, alongside compatriot Chinonso Emeka, Mouhamed Tidjane Traore (Cote d’Ivoire), and Boubou Diallo (Mali).
In fact, the club’s sports director, Martin Hasek, praised the signing, describing Tijani as a young player who would bring both "physical presence and quality" to the midfield.
Now a regular in the squad, the Nigerian shared his thoughts on joining the Czech league, the challenges he faced, and the growth he has experienced since stepping onto the pitch at Dukla.
"Before joining the Czech league, I didn’t know much about it. From the outside, many people think it’s just an average league and don’t really pay attention to it," he continued.
"But when you look at how Czech clubs perform in European competitions, you realise that it is far from easy and deserves a lot more respect.
"Coming in was challenging at first because it is a different ball game. The league is very intense and competitive, and it took time to adjust to the style and tempo. However, with time, things have settled well for me.
"Right now, everything is going smoothly, and getting regular minutes on the pitch is the most important thing for me at this stage.
"I am enjoying the experience and learning every week. We will see how everything turns out at the end of the season, but I am confident and focused on finishing strongly."
The Chance Liga has long been a platform where Nigerians have shone, with players like Peter Olayinka, Victor Olatunji, and Igoh Ogbu proving their quality and making a mark.
For Tijani, following in their footsteps is a clear goal and he is determined to build on their legacy and establish himself as a household name in the Czech top flight.
"The Czech League has already proven to be a good platform for Nigerian players to grow and succeed," added Tijani.
"Peter Olayinka played in the league and made a strong name for himself. Currently, players like David Moses and Igoh Ogbu are doing well at Slavia Prague.
"For me personally, seeing Igoh represent Nigeria at the recent Africa Cup of Nations while playing in the Czech League is a huge source of motivation.
"It shows that playing here does not limit your chances at the highest level. If he can achieve that with the Super Eagles, it becomes a challenge and inspiration for the rest of us."
Tijani hails Holoubek’s leadership and Dukla’s relegation battle
The Super Eagle also praised the influence of manager David Holoubek on his steady return to top form.
Under the 45-year-old tactician, who has previously managed Sparta Prague and Slovan Liberec, Tijani has featured in 15 league matches this season.
He believes Holoubek’s leadership will be crucial in keeping the team focused during what has been a challenging campaign.
"David is a very good coach and someone who truly understands the game. He has a lot of knowledge, and if you pay attention, you can learn so much from him," commended Tijani.
"He is clear in his ideas and knows exactly what he wants from his players. Beyond his tactical ability, he listens, communicates well, and supports the players both on and off the pitch.
"Having a coach like that creates confidence within the team and helps everyone improve. Overall, he is a very good coach, and working under him has been a positive and valuable experience."
Dukla Prague are currently fighting to avoid relegation, sitting 14th in the 16-team league with 14 points from 19 matches so far. Commenting on their chances of staying up, Tijani said: "It hasn’t been easy because we are currently in a difficult situation, fighting in the relegation zone.
"However, I strongly believe that we will bounce back. Our goal is to escape the drop and, if possible, finish at least in the middle of the table.
"We understand the challenge ahead, and that is why we are working hard every day and staying united. And by God’s grace, I am confident that our hard work will pay off and we will overcome this difficult period."
Dukla Prague fired up ahead of Sparta showdown
As Dukla continue their battle to avoid relegation, they face second-placed Sparta Prague, who are chasing a record-extending 39th league title on January 31.
Brian Priske’s Maroons enter the fixture as clear favourites, boasting a superior head-to-head record. Despite the challenge, Tijani is refusing to underestimate his team’s chances.
"It will be a very interesting game, and playing against Sparta Prague is the kind of match every player looks forward to and feels motivated for," he stated.
"We know it will be a tough encounter, and we are fully aware of the challenge ahead. However, our focus will be on giving our best, staying disciplined, and fighting for every ball.
"Matches like this require belief, teamwork, and determination, and that is exactly what we plan to show on the pitch. If we stay focused and committed from start to finish, we believe we can put in a strong performance and hopefully come away with a very positive result."
