Rising star Raheem Moyinoluwa Salahudeen has opened up about how playing in the Nationwide League One (NLO) at just 13 years old has significantly shaped his football journey and prepared him for his time with the Future Eagles, Nigeria's U15 national team. Describing his experience in the third tier of Nigerian football as invaluable, Raheem highlighted the confidence and determination he gained from competing with older, more experienced players.
In 2023, the young midfielder made headlines when he played for Buruj Football Club in the NLO, catching the attention of football enthusiasts across the country. His debut at such a young age was a testament to his exceptional talent and potential. Since then, Raheem has continued to prove himself, gradually becoming the promising player many predicted he would be. Now, as a member of the Future Eagles, he recently showcased his skill by scoring a goal in a friendly match on September 3, 2024, underscoring his growth and readiness for bigger challenges.
Reflecting on his journey, Raheem shared the impact of his early exposure to competitive football. "I was featured in the third-tier league in Nigeria when I was 13 years old. It wasn’t easy playing among older players, but the experience improved my confidence and belief," he said. "Since then, I was determined to put more effort into my game to meet up to the top level. I thank Almighty Allah today for guiding and protecting me and for giving me the wisdom to combine playing football with my academics." He expressed gratitude to the NLO and Buruj Football Academy, where he started his football career at just two years old, for providing a platform that allows young players like him to develop and shine.
Appreciation for Support Systems and Role Models
Raheem took the opportunity to acknowledge the support he has received throughout his journey. "I’m using this medium to thank all the NLO staff, from top to lower levels, who have believed in me and other young talents like me, giving us chances to showcase our gifts from Almighty," he said. He also expressed deep appreciation for his team, Buruj Sports Academy, for nurturing his talents from a very young age, along with his parents, coaches, school teachers, playmates, and seniors. "I so much appreciate you all. May Almighty Allah be with you and your entire families," Raheem added, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system in nurturing young talent.
A passionate admirer of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, Raheem dreams of playing professional football for Manchester City or Barcelona one day. He also shared advice for parents on allowing their children to express their natural talents early in life, cautioning against age manipulation in sports. "Football now is not about manipulating ages anymore; they should start earlier. My father was never in support of age manipulation. He said if you are good, people will see you," Raheem concluded, urging a fair approach to developing future football stars.
A Bright Future Ahead for the Young Talent
At just 14, Raheem Moyinoluwa Salahudeen has already made significant strides in his football career, setting an inspiring example for young athletes across Nigeria. His journey from playing in the Nationwide League One to representing his country at the U15 level highlights his determination, talent, and maturity. With a clear vision for his future and a humble attitude, Raheem is well on his way to achieving his dreams on the international stage. His story serves as a reminder that talent, hard work, and the right opportunities can pave the way for extraordinary success, even at a young age.
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