Teenage footballer needs help
HIGHLY-RATED footballer, Tanaka Bope, may fail to attend a two-week trial in Spain because of funding challenges.
Bope impressed the Spanish scouts of Droom Soccer, who were in the country last month.
The scouts have organised a tournament in Madrid which will attract several top-flight clubs.
The players, who were scouted by Droom Soccer in Africa, will form a team that will play against Spanish developmental sides under the watchful eye of potential employers.
The tournament will run from August 14 to 27. The 19-year-old has been asked to pay US$1 000 as registration fees and is expected to fund his airfare as agreed by both parties.
But, his father, Collins, feels his son’s European dream will collapse if they fail to get assistance from the public.
“We were happy that our son made the grade and these scouts had made this clear to us before they departed that they will only provide accommodation and other aspects during his two weeks stay in Madrid.
“I feel like this could be his best opportunity to make a European breakthrough but we don’t have the capacity to pay the registration fee and traveling expenses.
“I’m appealing for assistance from anyone who might be willing to help our son to take his chance,” said Collins.
Droom Soccer have made it clear that should Bope impress, during these trials, the midfielder will be invited back to sign his professional contract with the interested club and they will foot that trip.
“During your assessment, the club will be on hand to observe the players, they will make an assessment and inform us about the decision made.
“If scouted, you will be invited back to pen a professional contract and all expenses associated with the trip will be covered by the club,” reads part of the agreement.