Chelsea FC has made strategic appointments to enhance their African scouting network. The club has hired former Super Eagles player Seyi Olofinjana and Achirou Gaoh to lead their talent management efforts on the continent. This move aims to tap into Africa’s rich football talent pool.
Seyi Olofinjana, a former Nigeria international with 56 caps, brings extensive experience to his new role. Olofinjana’s career included notable stints at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Stoke City, and Hull City. Post-retirement, he has worked in various coaching and development roles, including under-23 coaching at Wolves and a year as Sporting Director at Grasshoppers Zurich.
At Chelsea, Olofinjana will focus on recruitment recommendations across Africa, working alongside newly-appointed scout Achirou Gaoh. His role also includes facilitating player transitions to Chelsea and its sister club, Strasbourg in France, ensuring their smooth adaptation and development.
Olofinjana’s impressive background includes a UEFA pro coaching license and degrees in chemical engineering and sports directorship. He is also the executive director of Nigerian third division side Imperial FC, where he has overseen the development of talents like Taiwo Awoniyi, who was transferred to Liverpool in 2015 and now plays for Nottingham Forest.
Chelsea’s commitment to covering Africa more comprehensively reflects their aim to secure emerging talents earlier in their careers, building on the success of African players like Didier Drogba, Michael Essien, and Mikel John Obi, who joined the club after establishing themselves in Europe.
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