Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Victor Edeh, Director, FC Bayern Munich Youths scouting programme in Nigeria has said that the programme, which started in 2015 has taken young talented Nigerian footballers to Germany for professional football.
Speaking after the selection exercise which took place in Enugu, Edeh, who is also in-charge of Bayern Nigerian Youth Cup, advised the players to see their selection as the beginning of a new journey.
Edeh said that 10 players were selected, and another set of 10 players that will serve as standby team.
“We will process their travel documents to Germany for the FC Bayern Youth Tournament at Allianz Arena.
“We don’t want a situation where injury, sickness or visa related issues can deplete our team.
“Hence, we are processing travel documents for all the 20 players and this is the start of a new journey. It is end of one but the start of a new journey.
“We are looking forward to sorting them out with immigration and visas; organising a training camp for them; and preparing them for the defense of the Bayern Munich Youth Cup world title,” he said.
He thanked other participants who were not selected, describing the standard of the competition as very high.
Edeh said his foundation, VOE Foundation, will keep an eye on all of the players “and hopefully through their numerous projects, we will find a place to help them realise their dreams.”
He added that the 2023 edition of the Bayern Munich Youth Cup will come up in October in Germany.
Some of the players were selected from the scouting and they include Muhammed Danlami- midfielder from Team Combine; Muhammed Sadiq a striker from Ablaze Academy.
Others are, Saviour Mathias (midfielder from Abuja); Ogbodo Chidozie, (Striker from Purple Krown, Enugu); and Onuorah Divine (Goalkeeper from Purple Krown).
Also on the list are: Bashir Idris (Defender from Hearts FC Academy); Muhammed Mustapha (Midfielder from Hearts FC Academy); Suleiman Abubakar (Defender from Hearts FC Academy).
Also included are Ifeanyi Anthony (Defender from Team Enugu); and Aman Sabiu (Defender from R and K Academy).
At the final of the exhibition that took place inside the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), Team Lagos Select defeated R and K Football Academy of Kano.
