FIFA-licensed intermediary, Victor Macdonald alongside Euro 1992 winning coach Flemming Serritslev, offered their perspectives on the attributes that make African footballers stand out on the international stage.
Speaking during a session on Brila FM, Macdonald highlighted the importance of speed and strength when European clubs scout talents from Africa.
Flemming Serritslev. Photo | Brila
He explained, “As an agent, when I look at a player, his first three touches will tell me if he has what it takes, if he has a good future.”
Serritslev echoed similar sentiments when detailing his own scouting approach.
“Looking at a talent, it’s for me, as I said before, the way they are running with the ball, the way they are coordinated, the way they are balanced.”
He underpinned the physical aspect of the game, particularly speed, and how it becomes a crucial focus for talent evaluators as players approach their late teenage years.
“There’s one physical factor that you’re looking very much at, and that’s speed.”
Lens’ French defender Jonathan Gradit (L) fights for the ball with Nantes’ Nigerian forward Moses Simon. (Photo by Sameer Al-DOUMY / AFP)
Macdonald reinforced this view by stating that, “Apart from technique, which Europeans may have more of, another thing is strength; I think we are stronger than the Europeans, and then the speed.”
Both experts stated that while European players might excel technically, the blend of speed and strength found in African athletes presents a unique edge.
Serritslev concluded his thoughts by dragging the importance of continuous monitoring and development of players from their youth to ensure long-term success.
