Everton Football Club has announced the signing of Nigerian attacking midfielder Ademide Akarakiri on a scholarship deal, bolstering their academy ranks for the 2024-2025 season, according to All Nigeria Soccer.
Akarakiri, who spent a decade at Arsenal's academy, joins the Toffees as a promising young talent. Although he didn't make his competitive debut for the Gunners' U18s, he was regularly called up to train with the age group, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience.
The 17-year-old Nigerian midfielder has impressed coaches with his exceptional ability to run with the ball and his impressive passing range. Akarakiri cites his favorite Everton player as Amadou Onana and draws inspiration from football legends Paul Pogba and Andres Iniesta.
Akarakiri's move to Everton follows in the footsteps of Nigerian international Alex Iwobi, who also made the switch from Arsenal to Everton. Iwobi went on to establish himself as a key player for both Everton and the Nigerian national team, and Akarakiri will hope to emulate his compatriot's success.
As part of the scholarship agreement, Akarakiri will join Everton's U18 squad on a full-time basis, working under the guidance of U18s head coach Leighton Baines and Academy Director Gareth Prosser.
The young Nigerian midfielder's addition to the Everton academy represents an exciting talent acquisition for the club, and fans will be eager to watch his progress in the upcoming season.