James Olayinka

Olujimi James Ayodele Olayinka (born 5 October 2000) is an English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Cheltenham Town.

Arsenal
Olayinka began his career with Arsenal. He signed his first professional contract with the club in January 2019.

On 29 August 2020, Olayinka was named an unused substitute in the 2020 FA Community Shield, with Arsenal clinching a 5–4 victory over Liverpool in the penalty shootout after the match finished 1–1 after 90 minutes.

Loan to Northampton Town
In January 2020, Olayinka moved on loan to League Two side Northampton Town until the end of the season, making his debut in a 3–0 win over Scunthorpe United on 28 January. He helped Northampton Town to secure promotion to League One by winning the play-off final.

Loan to Southend United
In October 2020 he joined Southend United on loan until January 2021. He scored his first goal for the club, and his first professional goal, in an FA Cup tie against Boreham Wood on 7 November 2020. On 1 February 2021, Olayinka extended his loan with Southend United to the end of the 2020–21 season.

Cheltenham Town
He signed a two-year contract with Cheltenham Town on 1 September 2022. On 2 January 2024, manager Darrell Clarke announced that Olayinka had been made available for transfer. He was released by the club at the end of the 2023–24 season.

Personal life
Olayinka is of Nigerian descent.

Honours
Northampton Town
 * EFL League Two play-offs: 2020

Arsenal
 * FA Community Shield: 2020