Former Liverpool and England Under-21s footballer Jordan Ibe was reportedly arrested at Luton Airport last month following his arrival from Bulgaria. The 30-year-old, who currently plays for Lokomotiv Sofia in the Bulgarian top division, was charged with actual bodily harm in connection with an alleged assault that is said to have occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
Police Investigation and Court Proceedings
According to reports from The Sun, Ibe was taken into custody at Luton Airport on Friday, January 30, after flying back from Bulgaria. A police spokesperson confirmed to the publication that Jordon Ibe has been formally charged with actual bodily harm. The former Premier League star has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear before Croydon Magistrates' Court on March 6.
Background of the Alleged Incident
The charge stems from an assault allegation dating back to mid-December. Ibe had returned to the UK specifically to attend court proceedings for a separate, unrelated case when he was arrested upon landing. Daily Mail Sport has reached out to Ibe's representatives for comment regarding the situation, but no statement has been issued at this time.
Football Career and Recent Moves
Jordan Ibe's football journey has taken several turns in recent years. After commanding a club-record fee of £15 million when Bournemouth signed him from Liverpool in 2016, his career has seen him join multiple clubs. Most recently, in November of last year, he signed with Bulgarian side Lokomotiv Sofia after a brief 17-day spell with eighth-tier English club Sittingbourne Town.
Despite joining Lokomotiv Sofia, Ibe has yet to make his competitive debut for the club. This move marks the eleventh club of his professional career and demonstrates his continued commitment to football. In 2021, Ibe publicly revealed that he had struggled with depression for four years, making his perseverance in the sport particularly notable.
Club Support and Future Prospects
Upon his signing with Lokomotiv Sofia, the club released a statement expressing their confidence in Ibe's abilities. "After a few difficult seasons, Jordan is ready to revive his career, and we all believe that this will happen at Lokomotiv," the statement read. The management extended their wishes for "much health, happiness and success with the red and black jersey" to the footballer.
The arrest and pending court case represent a significant development in Ibe's personal and professional life as he attempts to rebuild his football career in Bulgaria. The outcome of the March court appearance will likely have implications for both his legal standing and his future in professional football.
