Ghanaian Academy Samba Stars Brings Talent to English Premier League Trials

In the quiet fields of rural Leicestershire, the Samba Stars are pursuing their ultimate ambition. Head coach Freddie Okyere has just concluded a shooting drill and allows the squad to rest.

The teenagers from the Ghanaian academy, backed by former West Ham and Nottingham Forest forward Michail Antonio, have spent two and a half months in England with a singular goal: impressing professional clubs and earning a contract.

While scouts regularly visit West Africa, it remains highly unusual for academies to travel to the United Kingdom to showcase their players directly in front of professional clubs.

“The talent these young players possess is remarkable,” said Antonio.

“We established the Samba Stars Academy to provide young players in Ghana with access to elite coaching, develop their skills, and create genuine pathways into professional football, showcasing the immense talent present in Ghana.”

Operating out of Kumasi while constructing a new facility in Bompata—located just over 100 miles north of the Ghanaian capital, Accra—the Samba Stars’ strategy has proven highly effective.

This summer, Bournemouth, Everton, Manchester City, Charlton, Preston, Barnsley, and Peterborough have all invited players to trial with their clubs.

“Initially, it did not fully sink in, but once they witnessed the facilities we would be using and the caliber of teams we were facing,” Okyere explained.

“They are eager to demonstrate their abilities. They are hungry for this opportunity, and I anticipate significant interest given the sheer volume of talent we have here.”

“With the facilities we will establish in Ghana, we believe we will rank among the top two or three academies. We hope to bring the best of Ghanaian football to Europe.”

Other success stories include midfielder Listowell Lord Hinneh, who joined Middlesbrough in February following a successful trial.

The 18-year-old has trained with the first team after trading his life in West Africa for England’s north east.

“When I arrived in January, the cold was intense. Experiencing such conditions for the first time was incredibly difficult,” he told BBC Sport.

“Relocating was a major milestone. It made me realize the dreams I have been nurturing—hoping to find my place in Europe and become a professional footballer. I feel I am on the verge of achieving the dreams I desire. I am well on my way to becoming the player I have always wanted to be.”

Hinneh—whose sister, Groovy, resides in Leeds—met with the Samba Stars squad during their visit, offering them advice.

“I told them that the future they have been dreaming about begins right here,” he said.

“Do not merely attempt it; be passionate. You must play and enjoy the game because success in any endeavor comes from fully dedicating your heart to it,” he added.

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