English side Manchester United Football Club (FC) on December 10, 2024, completed the signing of Kenyan teenage midfielder Emmanuel Ziro from Cre8tive Football Academy, according to the academy.
The teenage sensation caught the attention of Man United, and other Premier League clubs after impressing in the London-based academy in matches against youth sides of English top-flight clubs. Ziro has now signed a deal to join United’s Under-18s.
Confirming the move on Instagram, Ziro thanked his family while revealing his excitement with the move. In his statement, Ziro said that he is a Red Devils supporter.
“Firstly, I would like to thank my family for all their love, support and encouragement throughout the years. For as long as I can remember I’ve had a ball at my feet and enjoy the game of football. I now have the opportunity to continue doing that at the biggest club in the world, as well as the team I support,” said the player.
He added, “I look forward to continuing my journey playing for Manchester United and would like to thank everyone that has contributed to my development up until now especially Cre8tive football. You guys are my family, and I thank you for everything you have done for me up.”
Emmanuel Ziro signs for Manchester United Youth
Cre8tive Football while confirming the signing thanked Lambeth Tigers FC Chief executive officer and Jamahl Jarrett for the move.
Ziro is the latest in a long line of talent brought to the club by Jarrett who also doubles up as Manchester United’s lead scout for the south of England.
He joined the club back in 2021 having previously worked for Crystal Palace and has made a sizeable impression at Carrington since his appointment having also played a sizeable role in the successful pursuit of the highly rated Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal.
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Aaaron Samuel, Cre8tive Football Academy Director, thanked the scout for his role in Ziro joining the Red Devils, highlighting that he had a keen eye on the teenage sensation.
“Everyone at Cre8tive is extremely proud of Manu and wish him all the best. The kids got all the ability, great mindset and determination to go all the way,” Cre8tive Football Academy said in a statement.
Director Aaaron Samuel added, “He’s got the technical ability, athleticism and that ‘A’ grade quality to be a top player and he’s shown it week in week out for the past 2 seasons. Thanks to the keen eye of @jamahljarrett_, Manu is now able to continue his journey at @manchesterunited and I can’t wait to see how he develops in their professional environment.”
Details of the player
Cre8tive Football revealed that Ziro joined the academy 3 years ago. Little known details are known about the new Manchester United player, but reports indicate he is also an English citizen, according to SABC Sport.
This is in addition to his Kenyan roots, having been born and partially raised in Kilifi.
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Kilifi County Member of County Assembly (MCA) Thomas Mumba Chengo who represents Tezo ward in a statement on December 11 congratulated Ziro following the move, revealing that he hails from his ward.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Emmanuel Ziro for the historical signing to Manchester United at the very tender age of 14,” he said.
Ziro, a son of Tezo and KIlifi, is a talented midfielder who attracted the attention of EPL giants
He has made Tezo and Kilifi proud, and we have no doubt his star will shine in the entire world. Hongera ziro,” the MCA said.
Before joining Manchester United, Ziro was among young Kenyan footballers plying their trade in football academies located in Europe.
Others include Kenya National Under 20 Football team player Aldrine Kibet who is part of Nastic Academy located in Tarragona, Spain.
In addition, there are over 20 Kenyan players at the academy who arrived at different times.
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