Tyler Burey, a 24-year-old winger, has embarked on a fascinating and somewhat unconventional journey through the world of football, a journey that has now led him to the Bosnian champions, HŠK Zrinjski Mostar. This move marks a significant chapter in his career, potentially offering him a taste of UEFA Champions League football.
Burey's path began in the youth ranks of AFC Wimbledon, where he made his professional debut in 2018. A move to Millwall followed in 2019, and he made his Championship debut as a substitute against Huddersfield Town. He spent time on loan at Hartlepool United, where he scored three goals in nine appearances and earned Millwall's Young Player of the Season award for the 2021/22 season. However, he struggled to maintain a consistent place in the Millwall side.
In August 2023, Burey moved to Danish Superliga side OB Odense. After limited opportunities, he was loaned to Oxford United in League One in January 2024. His contract with Odense was terminated by mutual consent in August 2024.
In October 2024, Burey signed a short-term deal with Carlisle United in League Two. He made 11 appearances for the club, primarily as a right wing-back, but was not offered an extension to his contract. Following his departure from Carlisle in January 2025, Burey joined FK Igman Konjic in the Bosnian top-flight in February 2025. He made 13 appearances and scored one goal for Igman Konjic.
Now, Burey finds himself with HŠK Zrinjski Mostar, the reigning champions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The club announced his arrival on social media, stating that Burey "joins the ranks of the nine-time champion as a free player". This move presents Burey with a unique opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League. Zrinjski Mostar is set to face Virtus AC 1964 of San Marino in the first qualifying round. Should they advance through the qualifying rounds, Burey could find himself competing against some of Europe's elite clubs.
Burey's journey highlights the unpredictable nature of football and the diverse paths players can take to reach the highest levels of the game. From AFC Wimbledon to Carlisle United, and now potentially the Champions League, Burey's career is a testament to his resilience and determination. For Carlisle United fans, Burey's move serves as a reminder of the talent that briefly graced Brunton Park. Whether he succeeds in Mostar remains to be seen, but the opportunity to play Champions League football is a significant achievement for a player who once plied his trade in League Two.