More than 20 teenagers have played in 2023/24 edition of UEFA Champions League. However, a close look at their profiles shows that two of them are Africans. Who are these African young stars?
Karim Konate of RB Salzburg
The more valuable of the duo is Karim Konaté. Currently valued at €15m, this 19-year-old striker has played in both matches of RB Salzburg in the European first tier tournament this term. The Ivory Coast youngster made his UCL debut on September 20. Unfortunately, he lost a penalty in the 3rd minute. He played for 59 minutes before he was substituted out. He was also in action for the first half when the Austrian side clashed with Real Sociedad on match day 2. It should be noted that this West African has scored 5 goals in Austria's top flight this season.
Yakuba Minteh of Feyenoord
The second teenage player from africa that has made input in the current UCL is Yakuba Minteh. This Gambian was in action for close to 70 minutes for Feyenoord when the Dutch side hosted Celtic on the first day of 2023/24 UCL. Despite being the youngest footballer in the game Minteh made more goal attempts (3) than any player in the match. He also created 2 chances in the clash before he was substituted. He is expected to be in the starting line up of the reigning Dutch champions visit Atletico Madrid on October 4.
Can either of these players win the young player of the tournament?