By Victor Okoye
Renowned Argentine football scout, Marcelo Houseman, will arrive in Africa in two weeks to continue his search for emerging talents in Nigeria and Ghana.
Houseman, celebrated for discovering several African football stars, recently secured the signature of Ghana’s highly-rated 18-year-old prospect, Kelvin Nhrumah.
The veteran scout said Africa remains a fertile ground for football talents waiting for opportunities to showcase their abilities on the global stage.
“There are so many undiscovered talents across Africa. The continent is blessed with gifted footballers who only need the right opportunities,” Houseman said.
He noted that his passion for grassroots football had driven him to various African countries in search of players capable of excelling at the highest level.
According to him, some of Africa’s biggest football stars were identified through similar scouting missions conducted over the years.
“I discovered Odion Ighalo when nobody knew him. I also found Kim Ojo and worked with players such as Obinna Nsofor, Solomon Okoronkwo, and Christian Ebere,” he said.
Houseman added that he also played roles in the careers of South African greats, Lucas Radebe, Doctor Khumalo, John Moshoeu, and Philemon Masinga.
“But my biggest discovery of all was Shabani Nonda. His rise to the top remains one of my proudest achievements in football scouting,” he said.
The Argentine said his forthcoming visit would focus on identifying talented youngsters capable of making the transition from grassroots football to professional clubs abroad.
“I am coming to Nigeria and Ghana to make new discoveries. There are future stars there waiting to be found and developed,” Houseman said.
Houseman expressed optimism that his latest African tour would uncover another generation of stars capable of following similar success stories.
“Every great player starts somewhere. My mission is to find those hidden talents and help them reach the level they deserve,” he said. (NAN)