Leon Balogun Proved Right On Barcelona Prodigy Dembélé

Published: January 21, 2018

Leon Balogun was convinced that Ousmane Dembélé will be a big hit after playing against the France international in the striker's debut season in the German Bundesliga and he made this known to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The Super Eagles defender faced off with Dembélé in Mainz's 2-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund last season.

''This Dembele kid is unbelievable, I said it during the game to Aubameyang. I said 'Woah' what kid did you buy here, he's freaking amazing,'' Balogun told Deutsche Welle in 2016.

''He is so calm, very skillful, his speed is unbelievable. So congrats to Dortmund for getting that kind of player.

''I think they will have a lot of fun with him, he has a great future ahead.''

Balogun's prophecy came true a year later as Ousmane Dembélé became the first Barcelona signing to cost more than 100 million euros when he was acquired from Borussia Dortmund after Neymar transferred to PSG.

The two players could clash again if they are named to their respective teams rosters for the 2018 World Cup.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel