As an upcoming African talent, you have to be strategic about positioning yourself in the right places for opportunities. Here are some steps you can take to make yourself visible to scouts:

• Join a local team and play in a recognized league: Many communities and universities in Africa have local/regional clubs that play in leagues. Playing in these leagues can give you exposure and access to coaches or FA staff that may recommend you to bigger clubs and teams.
• Get into a football academy: Football academies are a great platform for learning and career progress. You can be easily grouped by age or grade and get bigger opportunities through the academy’s network and scouting programs.
• Join a football management agency: Agents manage your footballing career. While you focus on getting better at your skill, they seek out opportunities, brand and market you to get those opportunities.
• Reach out to scouts or intermediaries through cold calls or emails: This involves actively pushing yourself out there by establishing relationships with scouts and intermediaries. However, ensure you can verify the people you are reaching out to.
• Attend tryouts and scouting programs: Be intentional about knowing what scouting programs are happening around you and when.