Official: Nigerian midfielder joins Everton on scholarship deal after spending 10 years at Arsenal

Through their official website, Premier League club Everton have announced the new intake of academy scholars for the 2024-2025 season.

The Toffees have confirmed that Nigerian attacking midfielder Ademide Akarakiri is among twelve academy prospects who will be part of the U18 squad on a full-time basis for the upcoming season.

As per Premier League rules, all players in their U17 year are required to start the 2024-2025 season on a scholarship agreement, before they are permitted to sign a first professional football contract on or after their 17th birthday.

Akarakiri has joined  Everton after spending ten years at Arsenal and  describes running with the ball as his best attribute, along with his passing range.

Although he did not make his competitive debut for the Gunners U18s, he was called up to train with the age group during his time in north London. 

He has chosen Amadou Onana is his favourite Everton player, and enjoyed watching Paul Pogba and Andres Iniesta growing up as a kid.

Akarakiri has followed in the footsteps of Alex Iwobi by joining Everton, where the Nigeria national teamer, a product of Arsenal's Hale End Academy, previously played before transferring to Fulham on deadline day last summer.

The new scholars attended a presentation on Monday evening at Goodison Park, featuring guest speakers such as U18s head coach and Everton icon Leighton Baines, Academy Director Gareth Prosser and Head of Academy Coaching Carl Darlington.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com