Sports

The Next Messi or Ronaldo Will Come from Africa -Founder of Next Level Scouting

Published

4 hours ago

March 21, 2025

By Joel Ajayi

One of the world’s top scouting agents and the founder of Next Level Scouting, Jouko Gorissen, has expressed confidence that the next football superstar comparable to Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo will emerge from Africa, particularly Nigeria, given the immense talent present in the country.

The event, organized in partnership with USYAK Academy, has attracted over 10 scouts from across the globe, all keen on identifying future football stars.

Speaking at the ongoing Next Level Scouting 2025 event inside the turf Arena pitch Central Business Area on Friday, in Abuja, Nigeria, Jouko Gorissen emphasized the importance of discovering and nurturing young players with exceptional potential.

The Next Level Scouting programme has brought together over 300 young players from 16 academies across Nigeria, with successful players set to secure opportunities in top footballing nations such as Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands.

“We have 10 scouts on the ground and another 198 scouts worldwide watching the games online. There are 16 teams competing for professional contracts, and opportunities are not limited to Europe alone.

“Clubs from Japan, Korea, Saudi Arabia, America, Brazil, Egypt, South Africa, and even Australia are watching right now.”

He praised Nigerian players for their distinct style of play, saying: Nigerian players are known for high-paced, high-intensity, strong, and technical football.

“We’ve already spotted a few players in the first game who seem ready to take the next step.”
Gorissen expressed optimism about Africa’s football future: “Studies suggest that the next Messi or Ronaldo will come from Africa. This is what we hope to see here.

“Our job is to find the right clubs where these players can develop and progress to the next level.”

In his remarks, Usman Alfa, Chairman of USYAK Academy and Team Manager of Niger Tornadoes FC, emphasized the dual purpose of scouting-talent discovery and financial investment.
“Our goal is to discover talents and generate revenue because football is both a passion and a business.

“We have 16 academies participating, giving young players a platform to showcase their skills.
“Each team will play two matches, and the best talents will be selected to advance in their football careers.”

The Next Level Scouting 2025 event is set to be a game-changer for Nigerian football, offering young players a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be scouted by top clubs worldwide. With extensive global interest and investment in African football, the dream of producing the next football icon from the continent is closer than ever.

However, the Chairman of Nigeria National League (NNL), George Aluo, who was the special guest of honour kick off the event inside Turf Arena central Area of Nigeria.

Share on Facebook

Sports

NNL Chairman Promises Exciting Second Stanza

Published

51 mins ago

March 21, 2025

The Gleamer

The Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL) has assured fans and stakeholders of a more competitive and well-organized second stanza of the season.

Speaking on Friday in Abuja at the 2025 Next Level Scouting event, held at the Turf Arena, Central Business District, Aluo emphasized that the league is committed to maintaining high standards.

The scourting event, organized in partnership with USYAK Academy, attracted over 10 scouts from around the world, all keen on discovering future football stars.

Aluo acknowledged that while the first stanza of the league had been successful, the second phase would be more challenging due to increased competition and desperation among clubs.

“We know the second stanza will be more difficult because desperation sets in. That’s why we need to closely monitor matches, ensuring officiating remains as fair and transparent as it was in the first phase. Clubs that deserve to win should win, whether playing at home or away.”

“Like in the first stanza, all our matches will be live on television and streaming platforms. We also want to improve match venues—some of the pitches are not up to standard.We’ve given clubs until the 28th of this month to upgrade their pitches or relocate to better venues because we want matches played in TV-friendly stadiums.”

Aluo praised referees for their efforts in ensuring credible officiating, which has contributed to the league’s growing popularity.

“I want to commend the referees for their job. It may not be 100% perfect, but officiating has been very good.

“Fans have also been wonderful, and their enthusiasm is attracting more people to NNL matches. We’re seeing crowds at NNL games almost as much as in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). That’s a great sign for our growth.”

Regarding the NNL Super 8, Aluo confirmed that while the venue is yet to be finalized, it will be announced before the end of the league season: “We’re happy with the progress of the league, and we believe the second stanza will be even better. As for the Super 8, the venue will be announced before the league concludes.”

He also expressed gratitude to the media for their role in promoting the league’s positive image: “I want to thank the media for their unwavering support. They have been instrumental in driving the league forward, and with their continued backing, we will take the NNL to the next level.”

With these assurances, fans can look forward to a thrilling and competitive second stanza, as teams battle for promotion, relegation and a place in the NNL Super 8.

Share on Facebook