English Premier League side Bournemouth are close to finalising the signing of American-born Nigerian defender Matai Akinmboni from DC United. According to Sky Sports UK, the deal is valued at £1 million plus add-ons, and the 18 year old centre back is expected to arrive in the United Kingdom within the next 24 hours.
Akinmboni made history on September 10, 2022, becoming the youngest player of Nigerian descent to debut in Major League Soccer at just 15 years and 328 days during DC United’s goalless draw against Real Salt Lake. He has since made 13 MLS appearances.
Akinmboni joined DC United’s academy at the age of nine and progressed through the ranks before making his first team debut. Although he has trained with European clubs such as Bayern Munich, Villarreal, and Swansea City, no transfer materialised until now.
On the international stage, Akinmboni has represented the United States at various youth levels, including the U20 team. He remains eligible to play for Nigeria through his parents, Taiye and Abiola Akinmboni, who hail from Idanre in Ondo State and Lagos State, respectively.
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Akinmboni is contracted with DC United until the end of the 2025 MLS season, but the move to Bournemouth represents an opportunity for the promising defender to showcase his talents in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
Editorial
Matai Akinmboni’s move to Bournemouth is a testament to the growing influence of Major League Soccer as a breeding ground for young talent. The 18 year old’s journey from the DC United academy to the Premier League is not only a personal milestone but also an example of how global football is increasingly interconnected.
For Bournemouth, this signing is a strategic investment in a player who has demonstrated maturity and potential well beyond his years. Akinmboni’s experience in MLS and his international exposure with the United States youth teams position him as a future asset for the Cherries’ defensive line.
The transfer also holds significant implications for Nigeria. With Akinmboni eligible to represent the Super Eagles, the Nigerian Football Federation has a unique opportunity to engage and potentially secure another promising talent for their national team. His dual eligibility underscores the importance of proactive scouting and relationship-building in modern football.
As Akinmboni prepares to take on the challenges of the Premier League, his progress will be closely watched. Success at Bournemouth could pave the way for a stellar career and serve as inspiration for other young players navigating similar paths.
Did You Know?
- Matai Akinmboni holds the record as the youngest player of Nigerian descent to debut in Major League Soccer at 15 years and 328 days.
- DC United’s academy is one of the most successful in the United States, producing numerous professional players.
- Akinmboni has trained with European powerhouses like Bayern Munich and Villarreal, reflecting his high potential.
- Bournemouth has a history of nurturing young talent, providing them with opportunities to thrive in the Premier League.
- Akinmboni’s parents hail from two prominent Nigerian states Ondo and Lagos adding to his ties to the Super Eagles’ football legacy.
