Ben Godfrey has officially joined Ipswich Town FC on loan from Atalanta BC, marking a significant return to English football after his recent move to Italy. The temporary transfer agreement will see him at the Portman Road club until June 30, 2025. Both clubs have expressed optimism for Godfrey’s development and contributions throughout the remainder of the season.
Godfrey, who previously played for Everton, had limited playing time at Atalanta, featuring only five times across all competitions since his signing. His move to Ipswich signifies not only his desire for more game action but also his first signing of the January transfer window for the club. The newly promoted side is eager to bolster its squad as they aim to solidify their position in the league.
"It’s been an exciting couple of days and I’m just delighted to have signed and can’t wait to meet the lads and get started," Godfrey stated during his introduction on TownTV. The defender expressed enthusiasm for reuniting with the competitive spirit of English football and the opportunity to work with Ipswich Town’s manager, Kieran McKenna.
Godfrey's reflections on the squad showed his admiration for the team’s cohesiveness. "I’ve watched a lot of the games from the first half of the season and you can tell from those games the group is tight, full of players giving everything to achieve their goals," he mentioned, hinting at his eagerness to integrate seamlessly and support his new teammates.
Although Godfrey has acknowledged the disappointment of not seeing regular game time at Atalanta, he is optimistic about this opportunity at Ipswich. "I’ve not played as much as I would have liked so far this season, but I feel ready to contribute and am looking forward to getting out there," he added, signaling his intent to make the most of this new chapter.
His return not only offers Godfrey the chance to relaunch his career but also enhances Ipswich’s defensive lineup, which aims to navigate the challenges of the current Premier League campaign successfully. The management is hopeful about Godfrey's integration and his potential to make substantial contributions.
Overall, the timing of Godfrey's transfer from Atalanta to Ipswich Town is pivotal, and it stands to be beneficial for both the player and the club. Following his unsuccessful stint at Atalanta, he looks forward to showcasing his skills more prominently on the English football stage, hoping to reinstate himself as a formidable presence on the pitch.