Before departing for Europe, the 14 players were given advice by the Director General for Sports Development at Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports, Gilbert Muvunyi, who encouraged them to make good use of the opportunity and learn how sports are developed in other countries.
He said: “This is a great opportunity for them. They should observe how things are done elsewhere and make the most of it. If they have Mbappé there, why can’t we also produce a player like him?”
Among the players are eight Rwandans, along with others from different countries including Eritrea, Sudan, Burundi, Ethiopia, and two from the United States.
All of them study at international schools operating in Rwanda. Among them is 17-year-old forward Abdoullah Khalfan, who will join the Manchester United youth academy in England once he turns 18. Before that, he will spend one year in Germany.
He said: “This is a great opportunity for me and for those close to me. I have worked very hard to make this possible.”
The Director of Inspire Stars Academy, Rodrigue Nzeye, said the players will spend eight days in Munich, Germany, invited by the DFI Football Interna academy, before continuing their trip to France, where they will stay for two more days.
He added: “It is encouraging to see the country’s leadership beginning to recognize and support our activities.”
The academy currently has 197 players and often conducts its training sessions at Amahoro Stadium and Zaria Court.
Young Rwandan Footballers Head to Europe in Search of International Opportunities