Sports
African Football Talent Faces European Poaching: Clubs Struggle to Retain Emerging Stars Amid Foreign Offers
Global attention is on African football talent, which brings unique strength and style to some of the most prestigious European leagues. In recent years, the transfer of African players has grown, with top leagues in England, France, and Italy actively scouting emerging stars from across the continent. With limited resources, African clubs develop talent that is noticed by scouts of high-profile clubs. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Senegal’s Sadio Mane have both become household names internationally, leading their teams to major victories. The quality that comes from African leagues and the demand it creates worldwide is exceptional, and this movement is proof of that.
Global Human Exodus: Africans Lured Away by Other Countries
Football is only one field in which skilled Africans have migrated, with medicine, engineering, and science, among others. Nigeria and Ghana are in high demand for medical professionals across Europe and North America because of shortages in those regions. African engineers, mostly from South Africa and Egypt, also tend to take jobs in international firms, lured by higher wages and more advanced training. Athletics and basketball also see strong representation: African-born NBA players, like Cameroon’s Joel Embiid, bring global attention to basketball, while Kenyan and Ethiopian runners dominate long-distance races worldwide. African countries are left grappling with expertise gaps, which is why talent retention is becoming a growing priority across sectors.
The Core of the Matter: Countries with the Highest Talent Outflow
Nigeria and Senegal are leading the way in exporting football talent to Europe, but they’re not alone. Players from the Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Cameroon are always producing and quickly attracting attention abroad. Indeed, Nigeria has more than 200 players playing in leagues across the globe, most of whom include names in the top leagues, such as in England and Italy. It’s following a historic trail: French talent is pulled from former colonies like Senegal and Ivory Coast, places where language and cultural affinity makes the transition easier.
Sports betting fans have long noticed that athletes from Africa, regardless of what club or country they represent, are always of a high level and have a great chance of winning. Modern betting tools, such as the Melbet official app, allow one to track the success rates of athletes and their dynamics, helping to make the right choice.
In fact, Senegal’s football federation even works with French clubs to run training programs. Algeria and Morocco are also high migration destinations for North African countries to French and Spanish leagues, which gives European competitions a unique diversity of play styles.
Not Just a Dream: The Business of Youth Academies in Africa
Top European clubs are drawing scouts to African youth academies that are shaping future stars. Ghana’s Right to Dream and Senegal’s Diambars Academy are two such academies that offer intense training and education, along with international teams and much more. These academies are mainly funded by European clubs that want to sign those who are young and aim to bring them up abroad to get resources and pathways for standout players. Interestingly, Diambars was founded by former Senegalese players to boost local football, but it’s also a gateway to Europe for rising stars. The early connection assures a steady line of spiraling, where young players, often under 18, move into the European football system and quickly learn to adapt to its requirements.
Who’s Signing Them? Clubs Known for Targeting African Players
African players are good assets for competitive leagues, and some European clubs are especially interested in signing African players. Lille and Monaco lead the way, with Lille producing stars such as Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen before his record transfer to Napoli. Finally, English clubs are also major destinations, and Arsenal has been instrumental in bringing players such as Thomas Partey from Ghana. Osimhen and Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly joined Napoli in Italy’s Serie A to bolster its defense. However, many of these clubs often set up scouting networks and links in Africa to monitor the best talent as early as they can and to secure the best players.
As this research shows, several factors drive African players to European clubs beyond just salary differences:
- general economic stability and great opportunities for career growth
- easy transition due to cultural ties thanks to a common language (especially for French-speaking regions)
- professional training facilities and quality infrastructure
- no restrictions on clubs in terms of resources spent
- access to high-level competitions and international recognition
But this is well known in Africa itself, so today there are already active measures. So clubs and governments of countries want to keep their best people, and they try to make their conditions no less comfortable than abroad.
Holding the Line: How African Clubs are Fighting to Keep Their Stars
African clubs are coming up with creative ways to keep top talent from leaving. Egypt’s Al Ahly and Tunisia’s Espérance, for instance, pay competitive salaries backed by local sponsors that are comparable to what mid-level European clubs do. More clubs in Nigeria are sealing local brand partnerships in a bid to pad income and make contracts more appealing. Better medical and training amenities also allow players to stay interested and pursue better training facilities, as South African Mamelodi Sundowns, for instance, are setting new standards in player care. It is true that it is difficult to surprise anyone in the world of sports with standards of providing the best service – for example, MelBet customer care has long been providing the best conditions to its clients, regardless of what country they are in. And melbet account registration has become a level higher in terms of convenience and speed for users.
African clubs are also partnering with government programs and foreign investors to further strengthen their financial base. Clubs in Morocco and South Africa offer educational programs for young players as a backup career path and long term stability.
FIFA and CAF’s Role: Curbing the Exodus of Young Talent
FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) are using their funds to protect African talent by funding youth programs across the continent. For example, the FIFA Forward program provides financial support to build and coach at the local level. The Win-Win program fosters partnerships between African and European clubs in a bid to improve training associated with bringing young players closer to home.
New transfer rules bring further protection, especially for under 18 players, with restrictions on international moves and an attempt to stop early poaching. FIFA also introduced regulations which monitor the behaviour of both players and agents in order to reduce exploitation by agents; ensuring young athletes have a more secure pathway into professional football. The success or failure of such decisions in the near future will determine the character of African sport for decades to come, analysts say.
Loyal to Their Roots: Players Who Stayed in Africa Their Whole Careers
Some African football legends have decided to give their entire careers to their home leagues, even with lucrative offers from abroad. Mohamed Aboutrika, the former Egypt star player, spent all of his professional career with Egyptian side Al Ahly, where he has led them to many African Champions League victories. Always refusing international offers, he became a national hero for his loyalty to local football. If you want to get to know his legacy and that of other football legends better, you can do so at MelBet Sport, with reports on every athlete and access to hundreds of football match replays.
South Africa’s Doctor Khumalo, who played for Kaizer Chiefs, one of the country’s top teams, could have gone international but chose to stay home. Aboutrika and Khumalo are players who inspire young athletes to know that football careers can be built in African leagues.
Back to the Roots: European Stars Who Returned to Africa
African players with European careers often decide to return home and play or coach. After a successful stint at Chelsea, Didier Drogba returned to support local football, first with Phoenix Rising FC in the US and later in his native Ivorian football development. Like Eto’o, Samuel Eto’o spent his final seasons in Qatar and Turkey but has since used his post-retirement efforts to build football infrastructure in Cameroon.
Others, such as South Africa’s Benni McCarthy, who played in England’s Premier League, went into coaching, like Cape Town City FC. McCarthy’s European experience has been a valuable asset to him, setting new coaching standards in African leagues.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for African Football Talent
With clubs scouring young players internationally, keeping African football talent within the continent is proving to be a challenge. However, the provision of greater investment in African youth Academies and partnerships with local clubs provide improved resources to develop and keep talent. FIFA and CAF also back such programs, which offer stronger protections for young players, but also ensure that they have opportunities to develop at home.
However, the path to Europe still seems attractive since the competition is strong and opportunities for career development are present. But as African clubs continue to grow financially and technically, they may provide viable alternatives for players looking for professional success, right at home.
The 32nd edition of Africa’s premier boxing event, GOtv Boxing Night, is scheduled for December 26 at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos. Since its debut in 2014, GOtv Boxing Night has become a prime platform for Nigerian and African boxers to make a name for themselves. Organised by Flykite Productions, the event has wowed boxing fans across Africa with unforgettable national and international title bouts across weight categories. In no particular order, here is a list of the most cracking fights at the event:
1. Waidi ‘Skoro’ Usman vs. Edward ‘Shaka’ Kakembo: The headline bout of the 5th edition, held in December 2015, saw Skoro, a big favourite of the Lagos boxing public, attempt to win the vacant African Boxing Union (ABU) featherweight title against his Ugandan opponent. But Kakembo, who appeared on the ring wearing big and long chains around his neck, had too much in the tank for Skoro. His speed of thought and hands were too much for Skoro, and in no time, the crowd cheered him loudly. He won by a split decision.
2. Oto “Joe Boy” Joseph vs. Nurudeen “Prince” Fatai: Both were at their peak in 2016 when the bout was held. It was a grudge match, with Nurudeen seeking to avenge his previous defeat in a non-title bout. The chance to exact revenge was twice delayed because Nurudeen, the reigning national champion at the time, was injured.
The chance came on 1 May 2016 and headlined GOtv Boxing Night 7. Nurudeen’s title was on the line. The volume-punching Joe Boy met a tough Nurudeen in what has to be one of the most bruising bouts ever at GOtv Boxing Night. Joe Boy won by unanimous decision after 12 gruelling rounds, winning the N1 million cash prize attached to the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the best boxer.
3. Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu vs. Alidu Sulemana: The West African Boxing Union (WABU) title fight, which took place at GOtv Boxing Night 30, had everything: action, drama, controversy and sub-regional rivalry. The last attribute was on account of the Ghana-Nigeria rivalry which, by default, is as fierce as anything. Sulemana, a Ghanaian, battled Olowu with guile and determination for the WABU Super Welterweight title in a very close contest. Olowu ultimately won via a split decision, though some fans felt the Ghanaian fighter deserved the victory.
4. Rilwan Babatunde vs. Edem “Lion Heart” Biki: A very spicy bout despite it being a non-title contest. There was so much aggression and determination on display. Biki was knocked down in the third round and was thought incapable of offering resistance. But he rebounded to do what he was deemed incapable of, delivering a fierce resistance and giving Babatunde a cut above his right eye. Babatunde was not slowed down by the injury, as he returned after being treated to deliver a mean combination, with the last punch an uppercut, to knock Biki unconscious. The medical team’s quick response prevented any serious consequences, and Biki was rushed to a nearby hospital.
5. Bolatito “Black Tito” Oluwole vs. Celina “Pretty Assassin” Agu: Arranging fights for female boxers can be challenging, but GOtv Boxing Night finally brought these two undefeated fighters together for a national cruiserweight title clash at its 28th edition. Despite suffering a right-hand injury in the fourth round, Black Tito pushed through all eight rounds to secure a unanimous decision victory over Pretty Assassin. Her performance earned her the Best Boxer award, making her the first female to win the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy, breaking a nine-year streak of male recipients.
6. Taiwo “Esepor” Agbaje Vs Richard Taruc Pumicpic: The headliner at GOtv Boxing Night 27, held in December 2022. Then the reigning West African Boxing Union featherweight champion, Esepor finally had the chance to fulfil his dream of becoming a world champion. In his path was a Philipino determined to end his unbeaten run. Deep into the seventh round of the explosive encounter, Esepor earned a technical knockout victory, sending the Lagos fans into wild jubilation. His fine display earned him his fourth Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the best boxer, along with the cash prize of N1.5m.
7. Stanley “Edo Boy” Eribo Vs Sunday “Capo” Olalekan: A masterclass in controlled demolition. This has remained a classic. It was at GOtv Boxing Night V and the first time the cash prize of N 1.5m was attached to the Mojisole Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy. Eribo and Olalekan clashed in a high-stakes battle for the national light welterweight title, with both fighters determined to emerge victorious. Eribo was methodical and was like a coiled spring, leaping to action only when required. Capo, on the other hand, was an all-out attack machine. Eribo’s control made it easy for him to pick his opponent off. Capo huffed and puffed, but his punches were largely harmless, unlike Eribo’s which did plenty of damage and delivered the title. Eribo also won the N1.5m cash prize for the best boxer..
8. Fijabi “Fijaborn” Fijabi Vs Sadiq “Police Machine ” Ahmed: This had a David-Goliath vibe. Fijaborn, who turned professional a year earlier, was pitched against the reigning national welterweight champion, Police Machine. Though short on experience, Fijaborn had the ability and, importantly, the stamina to execute the assignment. He dismissively defeated Police Machine, knocking him out in the fifth round and leaving him so punch-drunk that he staggered like a drunk walking a straight line. The cheers were deafening as he announced himself as a big-timer.
9 Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu vs. Isaac “I-Star” Chukwudi: A grudge match with the added spice of a national welterweight title fight. Both had clashed in a non-title bout that ended in a draw. Gentle Boy felt he won. I-Star was seen celebrating after the result was announced, which further infuriated Gentle Boy. As the national welterweight champion, Olowu decided to put his belt on the line for a rematch at GOtv Boxing Night 27. Before the fight, I-Star boasted that he would end Gentle Boy’s reign with a knockout. The fight lived up to its billing as both boxers traded force punches. In the eighth round, I-Star’s stamina began to wane. Olowu pounced with a power left hook to the jaw, sending I-Star sprawling like a battlefield casualty. That was the boast buster and the end of the contest won by knockout
10. Raphael ‘Iron King’ Kwabena Vs Olaide ‘Fijaborn’ Fijabi: This Nigeria vs. Ghana showdown was a fierce battle of two undefeated champions. Fijabi, the reigning national champion, sought to bolster his international reputation, while Kwabena had won eight of his nine fights by knockout. With N1.5 million at stake for the best boxer of the 9th GOtv Boxing Night, anticipation was high. Both fighters were evenly matched, and the bout went the distance. Fijabi narrowly claimed victory through a split decision, ending Iron King’s unbeaten streak. Furious at the loss, Kwabena demanded an immediate rematch, which Fijabi accepted. However, the scheduled rematch for the 10th edition was postponed due to an injury Fijabi sustained.
With 31 successful editions, GOtv Boxing Night has delivered thrilling local and international contests over the past decade, turning local boxers into millionaires and providing a platform for amateur boxers to turn professional. It has been a transformative ten years for GOtv in the Nigerian and African boxing scene, creating memorable moments that will endure for both fans and fighters for years to come.
Flykite Productions, organizers of the GOtv Boxing Night, have announced that the ace R&B group, Style Plus, will perform live at the 32nd edition of the event, scheduled for December 26 at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos.
The night will also feature a blend of thrilling boxing action and premium entertainment, with live performances by Afrobeats stars Mayorkun and YKB, as well as a comedy session by the popular MC Lively.
Speaking about the entertainment lineup, Bamidele Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Flykite Productions, said the inclusion of Style Plus is aimed at elevating the experience for fans. “GOtv Boxing Night is a unique mix of sport and entertainment. Adding Style Plus to the lineup ensures that attendees enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and boxing excitement,” he said.
Style Plus, best known for their 2006 hit track “Olufunmi”, remains one of Nigeria’s most beloved musical groups, with their timeless songs continuing to resonate with audiences across generations.
GOtv Boxing Night 32 is organised by Flykite Productions and proudly sponsored by GOtv. The event will be broadcast live on SuperSport channels, reaching audiences in over 50 African countries.
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Friedkin Group (TFG) has completed the takeover of the Premier League club, Everton Football Club.
The company, which also owns the Italian club, AS Roma, and is led by American billionaire, Mr Dan Friedkin, has acquired a majority stake in Everton, starting a new era for the Merseyside club and ending Mr Farhad Moshiri’s time in charge at Goodison Park.
This ends an 18-month-long stressful sale process which saw a lot of buyers express interest in buying the club.
First, it looked like MSP Sports Capital, then 777 Partners, and there was the Friedkin Group’s initial interest only for them to walk away.
The eventual buyers re-emerged after John Textor pulled out.
The deal will see important changes made to the various men’s and women’s teams as well as improvements in club infrastructure.
The transaction was finalised following an agreement between Mr Farhad Moshiri’s Blue Heaven Holdings (BHH) and Roundhouse for the sale of BHH’s majority stake in the club.
The deal received the necessary regulatory approvals from the Premier League, Women’s Professional Leagues Limited, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
Speaking on the deal, Mr Marc Watts, incoming Executive Chairman of Everton Football Club, expressed his enthusiasm, noting that it will aim to change the course of the club.
“Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club. We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch.
“Providing immediate financial stability to the Club has been a key priority, and we are delighted to have achieved this. While restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League table will take time, today is the first step in that journey.”
Mr Moshiri, the outgoing majority shareholder, stated: “I truly believe that the transaction with The Friedkin Group is the best outcome for the Club and its future success.”
“I now hand over to new owners confident in the outlook for the Club and that our incredible fans will see the success on the pitch that they so thoroughly deserve.”
On his part, Mr Dan Friedkin, Chairman and CEO of TFG is proposed to be Chairman of the Board. He has appointed Marc Watts to serve as Executive Chairman, who will be responsible in this role for the management of the club.
Ms Ana Dunkel, TFG’s Chief Financial Officer and Mr Colin Chong, the Club’s interim CEO will also serve on the Board.
The statement added that more appointments will be made in the coming weeks.
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