Aldrine Kibet reveals key things he has added to his game since moving to Spain that have accelerated his development

Aldrine Kibet reveals key things he has added to his game since moving to Spain that have accelerated his development

Mark Kinyanjui 10:00 - 26.06.2024

Kibet has made strides since joining the Nastic Soccer Academy in Spain straight from St.Anthony's Boys, Kitale last September.

Harambee Stars teenage sensation Aldrine Kibet has shared insights into his development since moving to Spain’s Nastic Soccer Academy last September.

 The young talent has experienced a meteoric rise following his standout performances in the 2023 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) games held in Kakamega last August, where he was named Most Valuable Player.

Kibet’s journey from Kenya to Spain saw him join Nastic Academy in Tarragona alongside fellow Kenyans Amos Wanjala and Alvin Kasavuli. 

At 17, Kibet has already made a significant impact, inspiring Kenya U18 to the finals of the 2023 CECAFA U18 Boys’ Championship. Despite falling to Uganda in the finals, Kibet emerged as the tournament's top scorer, further elevating his growing reputation.

Since his move to Spain, Kibet has reportedly caught the eye of Real Madrid scouts. Reflecting on his experiences at Nastic, he highlighted the holistic approach to development at the academy. 

“They have taught me about so much more than what is on the pitch because in Spain, they have even given us mental coaches,” Kibet shared on Monday. “They have taught me how to be positive and how to approach games with a winning mentality.”

Predominantly an attacking midfielder, Kibet’s left-footed prowess, composure under pressure, and ability to strike from distance make him a formidable player. 

He has also become more tactically versatile, learning to play various positions on the field. “I have become more versatile ever since going there. 

They have equipped me with the fundamentals of tactical know-how to approach games,” he explained. “They have taught me how to play from the 6 position all the way to the 9. I can also play in the 10 and even the 9.”

Kibet’s aspirations remain high, with dreams of playing for Barcelona someday. “Since I was young, I always wanted to go to Spain. 

"I shared it with my parents and I told them I would like to play for Barcelona one day. We are not there, but we are certainly on the right track,” he said. 

Living in the moment, Kibet aims to excel with the U-23s, hoping that continued success will bring his dreams closer to reality. He has been tipped to be one of the players that will represent Kenya at the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

 “I live in the moment. We got to the final of the CECAFA U-18 tournament and I learnt a lot. I am just living in the moment. 

“Now I want to do my best for the U-23s, do my best, and if I do well, I think it is going to start being a reality.”

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