Liverpool youth sensation pens first professional deal at Anfield

Afolami Onanuga signs first professional contract with Liverpool

17-year-old midfielder Afolami ‘Fola’ Onanuga has just inked his first professional contract with Liverpool, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.

Onanuga’s journey to Liverpool began when he was scouted while playing grassroots football in Manchester. Recognizing his potential, the Reds welcomed him into their youth system as an Under-11 player. Over the years, he has made steady progress through the ranks at the club’s Kirkby Academy, and he currently features as a regular member of Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s U18 squad.

What sets Onanuga apart is his versatility on the pitch as is the case with any young academy star. He does not see himself confined to a single position; rather, he exhibits his skills as a midfielder and plays on the wings. This flexibility adds a valuable dimension to his game, making him a well-rounded prospect for Liverpool’s future.

The Reds announced the same via the club’s official website earlier today. Fola certainly has a keen eye for linking up play, creating goal-scoring opportunities, and making his presence felt in the final third. These qualities have not gone unnoticed by the Liverpool coaching staff, and his development continues to be closely monitored.

Well done, lad!

Last month, Onanuga reached another milestone in his young career when he debuted with the U21s. He started in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy tie against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road, a significant step forward for the talented midfielder. This exposure to senior-level competition will undoubtedly contribute to his growth as a player. He has 18

appearances across all age-group squads for the Reds, scoring and assisting on one occasion each.

As Liverpool’s youth academy consistently produces top-tier talents who go on to make a mark in the first team, Onanuga appears to be well on his way to joining the ranks of those success stories.

The likes of Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak, Jarell Quansah, and Bobby Clark, among others, have all impressed with the first-team setup after progressing through the club’s youth system.

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As the club continues to blend seasoned veterans with emerging talents, the next generation of Liverpool stars is already making its presence felt.