The Ghanaian academy, based in Kumasi with a new facility in Bompata, has been hosting its players in the UK, where they have been training with elite coaches and competing against youth teams from the EFL and non-league. The Samba Stars have played a series of games, including a 9-0 thumping of Dorking Wanderers.
Several clubs have taken players on trial this summer, including Bournemouth, Everton, Manchester City, Charlton, Preston, Barnsley, and Peterborough. Midfielder Listowell Lord Hinneh, who joined Middlesbrough in February after a trial, has spoken about the experience, saying that it has given him the opportunity to chase his dreams and become a professional footballer.
Ghana have reached five of the past six Fifa World Cups, and eight members of the Ghana squad at this year's Fifa World Cup were born overseas. The Ghana Football Association has made noises about widening its global search. Michail Antonio, the academy's backer, has praised the talent of the players, saying "The talent the lads have is incredible."
The Samba Stars' success is a testament to the academy's hard work and dedication to giving young players in Ghana access to elite coaching and opportunities to play in Europe.