Players Ready for Professional Breakthrough

1 Sambou Conteh Club: Stingers FC Position: Central Midfielder (Box-to-Box) Foot: Right

One of the standout performers in his position, Essa Conteh is a diminutive yet highly competitive box-to-box midfielder with exceptional natural passing ability. Operating centrally, he dictates tempo, links defense to attack, and maintains strong vertical mobility across all phases of play.

His vision, spatial awareness, and relentless work rate place him among the elite in his role at youth level. A natural orchestrator in midfield transitions, he consistently impacts both defensive recoveries and attacking build-ups.

2 Richard Mendy Club: Excellence Academy Position: Right Centre-Back

A key figure in Excellence Academy’s National U17 triumph, Richard Mendy emerged as one of the most highly rated defenders in the competition. Comfortable in his movements, he also displays a solid technical base and control in simple phases of play.

Composed and physically strong, he reads the game well, dominates duels, and contributes effectively to build-up play. Comfortable in both a back four and a back three, he stands out as one of the best defenders in his age group.

On the mental side, Richard shows interesting qualities with good discipline and attitude, combined with a sense of humility and maturity for his age. He plays with a strong team spirit, while demonstrating combative qualities, courage in duels and a real willingness to compete. His perseverance is also a positive indicator for long-term development.

Key Attributes:

• Tackling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Positioning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Passing: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
• Strength: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Pace: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
• Aerial Duels: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  3 Bakary Marong Club: Esohna Academy Position: Midfielder

An attack-minded midfielder, he stands out for his technical quality and ball mastery, allowing him to be effective in one-on-one situations. Equipped with good pace and real explosiveness, he is able to create separation through his direction changes and sharp first steps. His mobility and coordination also make him a threat in offensive phases.

His versatility allows him to also operate in deeper roles when required.

He brings energy, intensity, and remains a constant threat in the final third. His recent move to the City Group setup highlights his growing reputation and potential.

4 Abdoulie Mansally Club: Esohna Academy Position: Attacking Midfielder

Since joining Esohna Academy, Mansally has evolved into a true tactical engine. His transition toward a European-style game reflects not just talent, but strong football intelligence and discipline.

He possesses excellent scanning ability, speed on the ball, and the confidence to score from difficult angles. His creative influence and consistency make him a standout performer—often dictating games regardless of team performance.

His style draws comparisons to Zinedine Zidane in his elegance and playmaking ability. Interest from AIK suggests a potential historic move alongside compatriot Muhammed Manneh.

 EXTRA RISING STARS

1 Pa Omar Sarjo Club: Esohna Academy Position: Defensive Midfielder / Centre-Back

A versatile defensive player with high football IQ, Pa Omar is comfortable in possession and technically refined. His intelligent body movement, positional discipline, and tactical awareness allow him to excel in both midfield and defense.

2 Ismaila Ceesay Club: Esohna Academy Position: Left Winger

A naturally gifted wide player, Ismaila combines strong first touch, intelligent movement, and attacking vision. He links play effectively and contributes both offensively and defensively with aggressive pressing and ball recovery.

The Brikama-born winger is already attracting European attention, with links to Sarpsborg 08 and AC Horsens.

3 Samsudeen Touray Position: Centre-Back DOB: 2010 | Height: 183 cm

A modern ball-playing centre-back, he excels at breaking passing lanes and combines a combative edge with strong technical ability. Dominant in aerial duels, he also possesses an impressive long passing range, delivering accurate distribution from deep areas.

His mental leadership sets him apart—organizing the defensive line effectively and directing teammates both in high defensive lines and deeper phases. Tactically versatile, he is comfortable operating in both a back four and a back three, adapting seamlessly to high-pressing or low-block systems.

He is capable of defending in wide areas, showing proactiveness in regaining possession quickly and demonstrating strong anticipation. A natural leader, he leads by example—fearless, highly competitive, and consistently committed, maintaining intensity in both training and matches.

He has recently earned a call-up to the U17 national team and is widely expected to play a key role in the upcoming qualifiers.

 4 Muhammed Manneh Club: Esohna Academy Position: Centre-Back (formerly Playmaker/DM)

A versatile talent, Muhammed Manneh has successfully transitioned from a playmaker into a composed centre-back. His intelligence, communication, and understanding of the game make him a reliable defensive presence.

Comfortable on the ball and tactically aware, he thrives as a left centre-back and continues to show strong developmental potential.