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Abdul Fatawu Background
Leicester’s One to Watch Abdul Fatawu is one of the most exciting young talents emerging from Ghana. Born on March 8, 2004, in Tamale, Ghana, Fatawu has quickly risen through the ranks to establish himself as a player to watch both domestically and internationally. His journey is a testament to his determination and talent.
Fatawu began his footballing journey at a young age, showcasing his skills in local competitions. His breakthrough came when he joined the Steadfast FC academy, a club known for nurturing young talent in Ghana. From there, his talent became evident, and he was quickly recognised as one of the brightest prospects in the country.
His performances at the youth level caught the attention of scouts, leading to his involvement in the national team setup. In 2021, Fatawu starred in the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a crucial role in helping Ghana lift the trophy. His impressive performances earned him the tournament’s Best Player award, further enhancing his reputation as a future star.
Abdul Fatawu Club Career
After his stellar performances at the U-20 AFCON, Fatawu attracted interest from several European clubs. In September 2021, he signed a five-year deal with Sporting CP, one of Portugal’s top football clubs. The move to Europe marked a significant step in his career, as it provided him with the platform to develop his skills and compete at a higher level.
At Sporting CP, Fatawu initially joined the club’s B team, where he was given time to adapt to European football. However, his talent quickly shone through, and he made his first-team debut in the 2021/22 season. His integration into the first team was a clear indication of the club’s belief in his potential.
Loan to Leicester City
In the summer of 2023, Fatawu made a significant move to England, joining Leicester City on loan as they competed in the Championship. This move was crucial for his development, as he was given regular playing time in one of the most competitive leagues in the world. Fatawu quickly adapted to the physical and fast-paced nature of English football.
During the 2023/24 season, Fatawu made 40 appearances for Leicester City, scoring 6 goals and providing 13 assists. His assist tally was one of the highest in the league, with only three players managing more. Additionally, he recorded 8 Man of the Match performances, underlining his influence on the pitch. His creativity and vision made him a key player in Leicester’s push for promotion, and his performances endeared him to the club’s fans and coaching staff.
Permanent Move to Leicester City
Following his successful loan spell, Leicester City signed Fatawu on a permanent basis in the Summer of 2024 after triggering a buy clause following their promotion to the Premier League. Fatawu’s transfer to Leicester marked the next step in his career, as he now had the opportunity to showcase his talents on the biggest stage in English football.
Premier League Debut
Fatawu wasted no time in making an impact in the Premier League. In Leicester City’s opening game of the 2024/25 season against Tottenham Hotspur, he made his debut and immediately made his presence felt. During the match, which also featured Spurs’ new signing Dominic Solanke, Fatawu provided an assist for Jamie Vardy’s goal, helping Leicester secure a crucial point against a strong Spurs side. His performance in that game highlighted his ability to step up to the highest level, and it set the tone for what could be a breakout season in the Premier League.
Abdul Fatawu Style of Play
Abdul Fatawu is known for his versatility and creativity on the pitch. Predominantly playing as an attacking midfielder or winger, he possesses a unique blend of technical ability, pace, and intelligence. His dribbling skills are a standout feature, allowing him to take on defenders with ease and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
One of Fatawu’s most notable attributes is his powerful and accurate left foot. He is not afraid to shoot from distance, and his long-range strikes have become a trademark of his game. This ability to score from outside the box adds an extra dimension to his team’s attack and makes him a constant threat to opposition defences.
In addition to his goal-scoring prowess, Fatawu is also an excellent playmaker. His vision and passing ability allow him to unlock defences with precise through balls and crosses. He is equally comfortable operating in tight spaces, making him a valuable asset in attacking transitions.
Tactically, Fatawu is a disciplined player who understands his defensive responsibilities. He is willing to track back and help his team defensively, showing a maturity beyond his years. This all-around ability makes him a coach’s dream, as he can be deployed in various attacking roles depending on the team’s needs.
International Career
Fatawu’s international career began at the youth level, where he represented Ghana in various age-group competitions. His performances at the U-20 AFCON were particularly impressive, as he played a pivotal role in Ghana’s success. His leadership qualities were also evident, as he captained the U-20 side during the tournament.
Following his success at the youth level, Fatawu was called up to the senior national team, the Black Stars, in 2021. He made his debut in a World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, becoming one of the youngest players to represent Ghana at the senior level. His inclusion in the national team setup is a clear indication of his potential to become a key player for the Black Stars in the coming years.
He scored his first competitive goal for his country in June of this year, in a World Cup qualifier against Central African Republic.
Future Prospects
At just 20 years old, Abdul Fatawu’s future looks incredibly bright. His performances in Portugal have already shown that he has the potential to become a top player in European football. His successful loan spell at Leicester City and subsequent permanent move to the Premier League are significant milestones in his career. If he continues to develop at his current rate, it is only a matter of time before he attracts interest from some of the biggest clubs in the world.
For Ghana, Fatawu represents the next generation of talent that can lead the Black Stars to success on the international stage. Ghana star Mohammed Kudus had this to say about the young star:
“I have told him this already, but I would like to use this opportunity to tell everyone how proud I am of his journey, how far he has come, and what he has achieved this season at Leicester.
“This is a source of motivation for him, me, and all the upcoming players of our generation.”
In conclusion, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku is a player who embodies the future of African football. His rise from the streets of Tamale to the bright lights of European football is an inspiring story that highlights the power of talent and hard work. As he continues to make his mark on the global stage, football fans around the world will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on his journey.
