African Football and the Harsh Reality of the European Dream
Everyone talks about African talent. And yes, it’s real. But let’s be honest: few make it. We are contacted regularly from players, agents, scouts and academies thinking we have the magic formula. We don’t.
Why so many African players don’t make it.
❌ Talent alone is not enough.
❌ Being “good” won’t cut it. The player has to be much better than the local talent.
❌ Clubs don’t sign players to be nice, they want ROI
❌ Perhaps Africa isn’t as different in terms of talent as other territories
What stands in the way of African Players?
🛂 Visas: many deals collapse because of paperwork
🤯 Culture shock: food, weather, loneliness. It’s tough.
👨💼 Fake agents: players lose years chasing lies
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family pressure: success becomes survival
👋 Quick release: clubs give little time to adapt
Let’s not forget: most players who do get signed, return home within 6 months to a year.
Why do clubs sign African talent?
🏋️ Some truly want to develop players
💰 But let’s not kid ourselves: most are looking to buy low, sell high
📈 It’s a business
What about the age factor?
⚽️ Clubs want players aged 18 to 20
🔍 Over 20? Most clubs look elsewhere
🏟️ They want to invest in a prospect, not a project
So even if you’re talented, if you’re 22, the clock may have already run out. This is the harsh reality.
Is African talent more deserving than others? No.
🌍 Talent is global: a great player in Ghana has the same dream as one in Chile or Indonesia.
📑 Nobody has a “right” to a contract.
So what’s the solution?
📹 Better data and video: don’t expect to get signed without it.
💡 Realistic expectations: most won’t make it. Some will.
🏡 Build at home: gain minutes, prove yourself in African or smaller pro leagues.
💪 Earn the move: Don’t chase it. Earn it.
Europe isn’t the only pathway: Middle East, North Africa, MLS Next Pro, Indian Super League provide great opportunities. There are other doors. Selling the European dream is dangerous. Let’s start telling the truth and become realistic.