SENEGAL: The 18-year-old goalkeeper from Dakar, Senegal, passed away in October, just weeks after leaving his home. He believed he was traveling to Morocco for club trials and to meet agents and international coaches. Instead, he was taken hundreds of miles to Ghana, where he was forced to call his family and ask them to send money to his captors. It’s hard to know how many young footballers across Africa fall victim to these scams, but there is proof that more and more are being tricked by fake agents and illegal football academies. These scammers persuade them to travel for “trials,” join academies, or meet club agents in other countries. For many young players, this seems like a rare opportunity to escape poverty and join the European football clubs they’ve heard about while growing up in West Africa.
A 2023 survey by the international players’ union FIFPro questioned over 250 footballers in various African nations. It revealed that 70% had been approached by agents claiming they could help them find new clubs. However, in more than half of these cases, the promised trials never happened. Of those surveyed, 56% didn’t receive the trial they were told about, and 44% did not get the contract they expected to sign.
Heavenly Father, protect young footballers across Africa. Keep them safe from fraud, exploitation, and every hidden danger. Guide their steps and surround them with Your care (The Holy Bible, Psalm 121:7).
Lord, give these young athletes wisdom to discern truth from deception. Protect them from false opportunities and lead them to mentors and paths You have prepared. Surround them with trustworthy people and guide them into Your purpose (The Holy Bible, Ecclesiastes 4:9).
News Source: The Guardian
Image Source: Canva
