Jeff Ekhator, the 17 year old Italian born Nigerian striker, scored his first Serie A goal for Genoa during their 5-1 defeat to Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium on Saturday. Ekhator came off the bench in the 67th minute and netted a long range strike in the 83rd minute, making him the second youngest player to score in Europe’s top five leagues this season. Only Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who scored at 17 years and 42 days old, is younger.
Ekhator’s debut goal came in his fifth appearance in Serie A, all of which have been as a substitute. The young forward has been in exceptional form at the youth level, tallying 52 goal involvements 32 goals, 20 assists in 73 matches, which earned him a promotion to the first team for the 2024-2025 season.
Despite Genoa trailing 5-0 at the time, Ekhator’s goal offered a bright moment for the struggling side. The young striker replaced Italy international Andrea Pinamonti and made the most of his opportunity.
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Ekhator, who has represented Italy at the U19 level, is set to join the Italian squad for an upcoming double-header against Wales.
Editorial
Jeff Ekhator’s emergence as one of the youngest scorers in Europe’s top leagues is an exciting development for both Genoa and the broader footballing community. At just 17 years old, Ekhator is already making his mark in one of the world’s most competitive leagues, Serie A. His goal against Atalanta may have come in a heavy defeat, but it serves as a sign of his potential and talent.
For Genoa, Ekhator’s rapid rise through the youth ranks underscores the importance of investing in young talent. His 52 goal involvements at the youth level demonstrate his ability to contribute both as a scorer and a creator, skills that will be crucial as he continues to develop. The decision by coach Alberto Gilardino to promote Ekhator to the first team for the 2024-2025 season is proving to be a smart move.
Ekhator’s achievement also raises questions about the role young players can play in Europe’s top leagues. While many clubs prefer to rely on experienced players, the success of players like Ekhator and Lamine Yamal suggests that giving youth a chance can pay off in big ways. If nurtured properly, Ekhator could become a key player for Genoa in the future.
His inclusion in Italy’s U19 squad highlights his growing reputation, but it also presents an intriguing dilemma. As a player eligible to represent both Nigeria and Italy, it remains to be seen which national team will secure his long-term services.
Did You Know?
- Jeff Ekhator was born in Genoa, Italy, but is of Nigerian descent and eligible to play for both countries internationally.
- Lamine Yamal, who beat Ekhator to the title of the youngest scorer in Europe’s top five leagues, is a rising star at Barcelona and scored his first goal at just 17 years and 42 days old.
- Ekhator has already accumulated 52 goal involvements 32 goals, 20 assists in just 73 youth matches for Genoa.
- Genoa, founded in 1893, is one of Italy’s oldest football clubs and has a strong tradition of developing young talent.
- Ekhator’s goal against Atalanta marked his first senior goal in just his fifth appearance in Serie A, all of which have come off the bench.
