IFK Göteborg New Signing Lazarus Stuck in Ebola Travel Limbo

IFK Göteborg have completed the signing of teenage talent Peter Lazarus, but the 18-year-old South Sudanese prospect has been unable to join his new club due to a combination of Ebola-related travel restrictions and complex bureaucratic hurdles.

"Because of Ebola, it is much harder to travel from certain countries," – Joachim Björklund, speaking to [Expressen](https://www.expressen.se/sport/fotboll/allsvenskan/ebolaviruset-staller-till-det-for-blavittalangen-/).

The Allsvenskan club, widely known as Blåvitt, are now exploring an alternative route to bring Lazarus to Sweden by routing his travel through a third country where visa and travel processing would be more straightforward. It is an unconventional solution, but one the club's leadership appears determined to pursue.

"It is not the easiest bureaucracy, but we will make sure to do everything correctly," Björklund added.

The situation highlights the increasingly complex logistical challenges European clubs face when recruiting young players from regions affected by health crises. Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa have prompted several countries to impose strict entry requirements, creating significant delays for those attempting international travel.

Despite the hold-up with Lazarus, IFK Göteborg have had better luck with another recent arrival. Nigerian midfielder Ifeoluwa Olowoporoku has already linked up with the squad and begun integrating into the club's setup, giving Göteborg fans at least one new face to look forward to on the pitch.

With Lazarus's situation still unresolved, the club's patience and administrative creativity will be tested — but Björklund's words suggest Göteborg are committed to getting the deal over the line by whatever means necessary.