My Experience Playing In NLO At 13 Is Invaluable  – Says Raheem Salaudeen

Rising football talent, Raheem Moyinoluwa Salahudeen, has described his experience of playing in Nationwide League One, NLO, at a tender age of 13 as a valuable experience, which aided his development in the game.

The SS 2 student got everyone’s attention in 2023 when he featured for Buruj Football Club in the third tier of League football in Nigeria at a tender age of 13 and ever since he is gradually becoming the potential everyone predicted of him due to exceptional football talent.

The midfielder, who is presently in the National U15 camp, the Future Eagles, shared his experience after he scored a goal for the Future Eagles in a friendly on Wednesday, 3rd September, 2024.

Raheem said: “I was featured in the third tier league in Nigeria when I was 13 years old and it wasn’t easy playing among older players. But the experience improved my confidence and belief; since then I was determined to put more effort in my game to meet up to the top level. I thank the Almighty Allah today for guiding, protecting me and for the wisdom, combining playing football with my academics”.

Raheem Salaudeen used the occasion to thank the NLO as well Buruj Football Academy, which he joined at age 2, for providing the platforms for talented young players to express themselves.

“I’m using this medium to thank all the NLO staff from top to the lower level who have belief in me and other young talents likes me, who gave us chances to showcase our gifts from the Almighty.”

“And I also thank my team, Buruj Sports Academy, that developed and nurtured me from age 2, from my parents, coaches, school teachers, playmates and my seniors. I so much appreciate you! May Almighty Allah be with you and your entire family.”

Raheem Moyinoluwa Salaudeen, who is a big admirer of coach Pep Guardiola and dreams of playing professional football in Manchester City and Barcelona, advised parents on the need to give their kids chance to express their natural gifts early in life as age cheating in football is no longer fashionable.

“Football now is not about manipulating ages anymore. They should start early enough. My father was never in support of age manipulation. He said if you are good people will see you” Raheem concluded.