Leicester City has secured the services of another promising Nigerian midfielder, Toby Onanaye, who has signed a new professional contract with the club. This follows shortly after Super Eagles star Wilfred Ndidi extended his stay at the club, quashing rumours about his departure by committing to a three year deal in July.
Onanaye, who is yet to feature at the international level, has been with Leicester City since his youth, progressing through the academy ranks. The 18 year old made his debut in the U18 Premier League against Fulham in September 2022 and has since made 34 appearances, contributing four goals and five assists.
As he embarks on his professional career, Onanaye aims to follow in the footsteps of former Leicester academy graduates like Kiernan Dewsbury Hall, Harvey Barnes, Andy King, and Ben Chilwell, who have all successfully transitioned to the first team. He is expected to play a significant role in Leicester City’s development squad in the upcoming season.
Editorial
The decision by Leicester City to secure the future of Toby Onanaye is more than just a routine academy signing it’s a statement about the club’s faith in its youth system. Onanaye’s journey through the ranks at Leicester highlights the importance of nurturing young talent, a strategy that has paid dividends for the club in the past.
Leicester City has a strong tradition of promoting players from their academy, with several having made significant impacts on the first team. The success of these players is a testament to the club’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. However, it’s not just about producing players who can perform on the pitch. It’s about fostering a culture where young footballers can grow, both as athletes and as individuals, within an environment that values hard work, dedication, and ambition.
Onanaye’s new contract, following Wilfred Ndidi’s extension, reinforces the club’s long-term vision. By blending experienced international players like Ndidi with emerging talents like Onanaye, Leicester City is building a squad that is not only competitive but also sustainable. This approach ensures that the club remains resilient in the face of challenges and continues to thrive, both in the Premier League and in European competitions.
The significance of this strategy cannot be overstated. In an era where many clubs are tempted to spend heavily on established stars, Leicester’s focus on developing young players sets them apart. It’s a model that other clubs could learn from, one that emphasizes the value of patience, investment in youth, and the long term health of the club.
As we look forward to the new season, we are optimistic that players like Onanaye will continue to rise through the ranks and make their mark on the first team. The future of Leicester City looks bright, thanks to the careful planning and dedication to youth development that has become the hallmark of this proud club.
Did You Know?
- Leicester City’s academy has produced several Premier League stars, including England international Harvey Barnes.
- Wilfred Ndidi has been a key player for Leicester City since joining in 2017, known for his defensive prowess in midfield.
- Toby Onanaye made his debut in the U18 Premier League against Fulham in September 2022.
- Leicester City’s youth academy was ranked among the best in the UK, with a strong track record of promoting players to the first team.
- The club’s commitment to youth development is part of a broader strategy to remain competitive in the Premier League without relying solely on big-money transfers.
